Prisoners with mental health problems have no home on release

January 4, 2002 in Adults

A study shows that 49 per cent of offenders with mental health
problems serving short sentences, have no accommodation when they
are released.

The report by the Revolving Doors Agency, found that 60 per cent
of those surveyed had a decline in housing quality in the three
months prior to offending, and 40 per cent of those with a secure
tenancy before going to prison had lost it on release.

The agency calls for more accommodation to be made available for
this client group and recommends higher levels of support to help
ex-prisoners gain access to existing housing provision.

“Where do they go? Mental health, housing and leaving prison” is
available from 020 7242 9222.