NEWS

pact officially launched its new booklet for prisoners' children, 'My Visit', in a cheerful and uplifting ceremony inside HMP Wormwood Scrubs last week.

Our guests - prison staff, prisoners, their children and families, funders, and dignitaries including Prisons Minister David Hanson - listened to a series of speeches about the booklet, and the small but crucial role it can play in reducing the negative impact of imprisonment on families.

A quarter of a million plastic ducks will be floating down the River Thames in London on 31st August - and pact will be part of the action.

If you sponsor a duck in the Great British Duck Race, you can choose to support pact as your chosen charity for the race. It costs £2 to adopt a duck - and if your duck wins the race, you claim the first prize of £10,000!

The race organisers are hoping to break a world record for the most number of yellow ducks in a 1km river race.

Sarah Brown, the Prime Minister's wife, hosted a private charity reception for pact on 10th June, at which she spoke warmly and enthusiastically about our achievements and our vital work with the children and families of prisoners.

Meeting guests, including people who had benefited from the charity's services, and supporters of the charity, Sarah was a charming and gracious host, and showed a keen interest in the subject.

Ever thought about volunteering at a prison? pact is looking for volunteers at HMP Woodhill, near Milton Keynes. We need family support workers, play volunteers, coffee bar helpers, and people to help with an exciting survey.

Drop in any time on Tuesday 8th July between 4.30pm and 7pm to chat to our friendly staff - and meet some other volunteers, to find out what it's really like!

Refreshments will be provided.

pact has secured a coveted 'Highly Commended' Award in this year's prestigious Charity Awards.

"This is the first time we have ever entered, and so to have been shortlisted and achieved this quality mark is a great boost for our hard-working and talented staff and volunteers", said Andy Keen-Downs, the charity's Director.