Experts highlight how mothers and babies can be better supported in the criminal justice system
Thursday 2 July 2026 – The criminal justice system is failing to protect the critical early months of a child’s life, according to speakers at Frontline Presents*, hosted by children’s charity Frontline last night.
Held on Wednesday 1 July, Frontline hosted an evening with Tanya Tracey, Director of Services at Birth Companions, and Claire Morley, Acting Head of the Women’s Team at HM Prison and Probation Service, who set out the scale of the problem and what desperately needs to change.
Evidence from Birth Companions shows that the 1,001 days from conception to a child’s second birthday lay the foundations for their lifelong physical and mental health. But policing, courts, prisons and probation are not designed with this critical window in mind – creating serious risks for pregnant women, new mothers and their babies’ life chances.
The event opened with the evidence base on the first 1,001 days, before turning to what happens when that period is spent within the criminal justice system. Both speakers argued that social workers and other professionals working in the sector, can be decisive in improving outcomes for mothers and babies during this time.
Tracey presented ground-breaking research from Birth Companions on pregnancy and early motherhood in the criminal justice system, calling for the sector to strengthen support for women at this pivotal stage and give their families the best possible start in life.
The discussion also examined Mother and Baby Units (MBUs) – specialist units that allow babies to remain with their mothers in prison in a safe, supportive environment, considering how they operate and why they remain a vital but under recognised part of the system.
Professionals from across the sector, including social workers and prison services professionals, were inspired to open up the conversation after the event where they spoke openly about their experiences and what changes need to be made going forward.
ENDS
*Frontline Presents is an event series hosted by children’s charity Frontline, where expert speakers talk about essential topics centred around keeping children safe from harm.