Our Story
The Aitken Project began with a simple belief: children should never have to face the impact of a loved one’s imprisonment alone.
The idea for the project grew from lived experience, research and a desire to do something different for children and families affected by imprisonment.
Children who experience having a parent, sibling, family member or other loved one in prison can face uncertainty, stigma, anxiety and loss, while often feeling that their experiences are difficult to talk about or that nobody truly understands.
And so, The Aitken Project was born.
Based in the East End of Glasgow, our aim is to create a safe and welcoming place where children can talk openly, build confidence, develop positive relationships and, most importantly, know that they are not alone.
Through one-to-one support, group work and activities, we want to break down barriers and create opportunities for children to feel valued, heard and understood.
We are honoured that Jonathan Aitken has lent his name to the project as our Patron. His support reflects our shared belief that children affected by imprisonment deserve to be seen, heard and given every opportunity to thrive.
Our story is rooted in experience. Our work is driven by hope. And our future is about making sure no child feels forgotten.
Our Mission
Provide trauma-informed, relationship-based support that empowers children, young people, and families affected by imprisonment to feel safe, valued, connected, and supported within their community
Our Vision
A community where no child or family feels isolated, unsupported, or disadvantaged because of imprisonment
The Aitken Project is not simply about responding to crisis - it is about creating connection, restoring hope, and building stronger futures for children, families, and communities.
Our Values
COMPASSION
Supporting families with empathy, understanding, and without judgment
DIGNITY
Treating every individual with respect, kindness, and humanity.
TRUST
Building safe, consistent, and meaningful relationships within the community.
INCLUSION
Ensuring every child, young person, and family feels heard and valued.
EMPOWERMENT
Encouraging resilience, confidence, and positive futures.
COMMUNITY
Strengthening partnerships and creating connected support networks.
Our Background
The Aitken Project is a community-based organisation created to support children and families across the East End of Glasgow who are affected by the imprisonment of a parent or close family member.
The Aitken Project reflects the personal passion and commitment of our committee, whose professional experience and personal interest in supporting children affected by parental imprisonment inspired the creation of the organisation. We believe that no child should feel isolated or overlooked because of a loved one’s imprisonment. Through relationship-based, trauma-informed support, we aim to create safe spaces where children and families feel heard, respected and empowered, while working alongside communities and partner organisations to reduce isolation and build resilience
As a faith-based organisation, founded by the Church of Scotland, we believe every child deserves to be seen, valued and supported, regardless of their circumstances. Inspired by Christian values of compassion, justice and hope, we aim to walk alongside children and families affected by imprisonment, helping them to build resilience and thrive.
Our Team
Kirstine Donaldson
Secretary
Alyson Riley
Vice Chair
Cayce Reed
Project Leader
Rev Peter Davidge
Chair Person
Rev Jonathan Aitken
Patron
Linda Robertson
Treasurer
