Over 60% increase in homeless prison leavers

Government data released today shows a shocking rise in homelessness among those leaving prison.

The number of people homeless or threatened by homelessness on departure from custody has increased by 62% compared to last year. This amounts to 5,610 households per year.

Campbell Robb, Chief Executive, Nacro said: “These figures show an urgent need for the government to invest in support and housing across the country for those leaving prison in the upcoming spending review. Leaving prison homeless increases the chance of reoffending and ends hope of rehabilitation. We want the government to ensure no-one leaves prison without a home to go to, giving people the best chance to get a job, rebuild relationships, and play a part in their local communities. This is even more important when many people leaving prison are coming out into a changed world in the grip of a global pandemic.”

Notes to editors

• 5,610 households were homeless, or threatened with homelessness, on departure from custody (2020/2021) This is an increase of 61.7% compared to last year (2019/2020).
• Nacro is a social justice charity delivering services to people in and coming out of prison for over 50 years.
• Contact Suzi Price 07483 025530