Read the transcript of 12-year-old Peter as he describes some of the difficulties that he is facing now his father has been arrested and sent to prison.

What emotions is Peter feeling and what difficulties is he facing?


Peter's Tough Times

It all happened a few months ago.

My Dad was supposed to meet me after school to buy me a new pair of trainers, but he never turned up.

At first I thought someone had died, but this was nearly worse.

"Mum what is it? What's wrong?"

My Dad, my Dad had been arrested.

I couldn't believe it, there had to be some mistake.

My Dad was in jail for something he did wrong.

And for a while, I hated him for it.

Why me?

Why do I have to cope with this?

What will my friends think?

Will they still want to be my friend?

Will they talk about me behind my back?

Did I make this happen?

Was it because I was bad?

At least Mum and Dad wont fight like they used to.

I don't want to talk to anyone about anything.

Most of all, I was worried.

Will Dad be all right in prison?

Who will look after him?

Who will look after me?

I found it hard to sleep at night.

I just kept thinking crazy things.

"Guilty, send him down..."

"Like father, like son..."

I had a thousand and one questions, but poor Mum always seemed to have a lot on her plate.