On Sunday, September 22, the first ‘Game with Mum & Dad’ event in Germany took place at Bremen Prison, marking a memorable day for four imprisoned fathers and their nine children. The event was organised by COPE member Hoppenbank e.V., a grassroots association that supports prisoners and relatives.
The gymnasium at Bremen Prison was transformed into a lively space, offering a variety of sports and games. Fathers and children played badminton, volleyball, football, basketball and even tried bowling. A parkour course, hula hoops and the prison’s climbing wall added to the fun, along with group activities such as ‘catch’ and ‘duck, duck, goose’.
When children needed a break, a quieter room with snacks and drinks was available for them to spend with their fathers. Here they could relax, talk, draw, read or take part in a football quiz.
The event was enjoyed by all participants. Fathers expressed how much it meant to them to spend time with their families.
“I finally had more time to spend with my children, I realised what I’m actually missing out on.” – an imprisoned father
(Ich hatte endlich mehr Zeit die ich mit meinen Kinder verbringen konnte, mir ist bewusst
geworden, was ich eigentlich verpasse)
(Ich hatte endlich mehr Zeit die ich mit meinen Kinder verbringen konnte, mir ist bewusst geworden, was ich eigentlich verpasse)
This event was not only an opportunity to strengthen family bonds, but also left a lasting impact on children and their families. It was the final step of many months of work, that involved children, their imprisoned parents and families, as well as prison staff and officers.
“I would like to come back very soon.” – child
(Ich möchte ganz bald wiederkommen)
By playing together, the prison is transformed into a place of connection. Unique actions within prison walls like GWMD become an effective tool to enhance and maintain the bond between children and imprisoned parents, while also reducing anxieties and fears children may have about visiting a prison facility. The environment becomes less daunting and more welcoming, fostering a sense of normalcy for family relationships. When children associate visiting their parent in prison with playing and happy memories, they bring home with them a desire to return. Maintaing physical contact in quality settings is fundamental to strengthen the child-parent connection.
This initiative is part of the wider international campaign, the “Game with Mum and Dad” COPE’s project, buidling momentum across Europe and beyond to recognise and secure the rights of children who have a parent in prison.
Hoppenbank e.V. is a recognised association operating in free assistance to support former prisoners, those imprisoned and those at risk of imprisonment in finding a job and reintegrating into society. Their work is grounded in the values of a humane, democratic and solidarity-driven society. They stand for a society in which cultural differences are respected, economical and social disadvantages are reduced and equal opportunities for all are encouraged.
