The prison that hands out presents to inmates’ children

Barnardo’s Scotland runs the prison’s nearby visitor centre which tries to create a more normal experience for families visiting inmates.

It allows the children to interact more with their dads and have some play time in a more relaxed environment, rather then just having the formality of a prison visit.

Director Martin Crewe said: “Christmas can put stress on all families, but particularly for the families who are benefiting from this scheme with a loved one in prison.

“It’s particularly hard, both financially and emotionally.

“What’s lovely about this scheme is that as we get to know the children we know what they like to play with so the gift they get can be tailored to the individual child and family.”

He added: “Of course, prisoners have done something wrong and are locked up for that reason but the family haven’t and, particularly at this time of year, we need to be forgiving of the family and the effect upon them and try and give all children a better Christmas.”