Shining a Light on the Needs of Children with Incarcerated Parents

Abstract

The Amplify Engagement Report presents findings from the Children with Incarcerated Parents (CHIRP) study, which aims to estimate the number of children affected by parental incarceration across five Canadian provinces (British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Ontario, and Nova Scotia) between 2015 and 2021. Recognizing the lack of national data and the profound impact of incarceration on child and family health, the study integrates insights from individuals with lived experience—including formerly incarcerated parents, caregivers, youth, and service providers—through focus groups held in February 2025.

Key findings reveal that the number of affected children is alarmingly high, though likely underreported due to data limitations. Participants emphasized the need for qualitative context to complement the quantitative data, advocating for broader demographic representation, acknowledgment of systemic inequities, and inclusion of Indigenous perspectives. The report outlines three major outcomes desired from sharing this research: increased public awareness and education, enhanced support systems for families and children, and policy reforms that prioritize child-centered approaches within the justice system.

The report underscores the importance of humanizing the data, addressing research limitations transparently, and amplifying the voices of those directly impacted to inform meaningful change.