About AFFECT
Action For Families Enduring Criminal Trauma is a UK Charity (Charity no: 1097087) established in 2000, it provides a vital lifeline for families whose lives are suddenly shattered when a loved one is accused or convicted of a serious criminal offence and suddenly, they are thrust into the frightening world of the Criminal Justice System. At AFFECT, we serve as a safe haven, guiding families through this traumatic time. We recognise that families struggle with the pain of what their loved one has done, they know they are not the victim or perpetrator and yet they feel they must bear the burden of punishment for their loved one’s actions. AFFECT operates a free, confidential and non- judgmental service which provides information, newsletters, telephone support and a self-help online group called Group Gatherings, enabling families a safe place to connect and identify with each other.
Thankfully support exists for prisoners and prison-leavers, but there is very little help for the families of defendants on remand and prisoners, they simply don’t know where to turn. Those who contact AFFECT are often facing a highly stressful life-changing situation and for most, they have had no previous experience of the criminal justice system. The 2025 television series Adolescence has highlighted how suddenly life for a family can change when their loved one commits a terrible crime.
Our Mission
“The Aim of AFFECT is: To support growth and movement through a particularly difficult time in what might be the “darkest hour” for Families Enduring Criminal Trauma”
Our Vision
AFFECT strives to help families see the light at the end of the tunnel. Affect passionately believes that early intervention can reshape lives and prevent physical and mental health trigged by stress and anxiety. Affect’s unwavering commitment to supporting families not only promotes healing but also plays a critical role in reducing reoffending and fostering positive behaviour of their loved one during incarceration. Together we can break the stigma associated with having a loved one in prison.
Our Core Values
Human Rights
We strive to promote and develop respect for human rights.
Free, confidential, non-judgmental
support to service users.
Integrity
We remain cognisant of our legal and ethical obligations.
Equal Opportunities
We are committed to preventing discrimination against service users and employees, as set out under the Equality Act 2010.
Compassionate
We maintain a non-judgemental approach and understand the importance of person-centred support delivered with respect towards one another.
Commitment
We aim to alleviate suffering and distress and to foster safety for all those who work for and are beneficiaries of AFFECT by implementing our policies.
Continued Professional Development
We are dedicated to the professional and personal development of all Staff, Volunteers, and Trustees through ongoing training.
Supporters & Partners
