If an individual has been in prison for a period of time, particularly if the period has been a lengthy one, one of their concerns may be how are they to cope with life once they are released? They may be specifically worried about where they are going to live or how they are going to find employment.
Prison Rule 5 states:
"From the beginning of a prisoner's sentence, consideration shall be given, in consultation with the appropriate after care organisation, to the prisoner's future and the assistance to be given him on and after his release."
There are resettlement teams in prisons who should help individuals with practicalities when release is approaching. Aside from this, whilst in prison, an individual may acquire skills which help him to live an offending-free life upon release. For example, he may learn new skills, gain qualifications or address substance misuse issues which have contributed to his offending behaviour. However, we cannot pretend that some offenders do end up back inside, and the reasons for this are varied. What is crucial is that a prisoner receives the support he needs once released. There are several organisations which address some of the pertinent aftercare needs.
"From the beginning of a prisoner's sentence, consideration shall be given, in consultation with the appropriate after care organisation, to the prisoner's future and the assistance to be given him on and after his release."
There are resettlement teams in prisons who should help individuals with practicalities when release is approaching. Aside from this, whilst in prison, an individual may acquire skills which help him to live an offending-free life upon release. For example, he may learn new skills, gain qualifications or address substance misuse issues which have contributed to his offending behaviour. However, we cannot pretend that some offenders do end up back inside, and the reasons for this are varied. What is crucial is that a prisoner receives the support he needs once released. There are several organisations which address some of the pertinent aftercare needs.
Support from the Probation Service
If an individual is released from prison on licence, the Probation Service is the body responsible for overseeing action upon release. The Service is provided by the local Probation Trust, and these trusts manage approved premises known as hostels for offenders with a residence requirement on their licence or sentence. This service in particular enables the transition between prison to the outside world is a smooth one in terms of accommodation.
Support from a youth offending team
Youth offending teams strive to help young people stay away from crime. They supervise young offenders serving a community sentence and support those in custody.
Support from a drug or alcohol team
These organisations support and aim to rehabilitate those who have substance misuse problems, or have had them in the past.
Other support agencies
Citizens' Advice Bureaux (for independent advice on a range of issues, for example, benefits or debt).
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