A significant increase has been reported in the number of former prisoners sleeping rough in Wales, according to figures from the Welsh probation service. The data reveals that there are currently 332 individuals who were recently released from prison and are now living on the streets in Wales. This marks a 210% rise from the previous year’s figures, raising concerns about the challenges faced by ex-inmates who find themselves homeless.
John Griffiths, the chair of the Senedd’s housing committee, highlighted the issue of released prisoners lacking stable accommodation, with 13% of ex-prisoners in Wales and England being discharged without a home to go to. He expressed worries about the impact of the UK Government’s early release scheme on exacerbating the problem of homelessness among former inmates. Griffiths emphasised the importance of providing stable housing as a key factor in reducing reoffending rates and promoting rehabilitation.
Conservative regional MS Altaf Hussain echoed these concerns, citing a 65% increase in rough sleepers over the past year and referencing a Sky News report that featured released prisoners resorting to rough sleeping. One individual interviewed in the report mentioned considering reoffending to have a warm place to stay during the winter, illustrating the dire circumstances faced by some ex-prisoners in Wales.
During a session in the Senedd, Welsh Government housing minister Jayne Bryant highlighted the need for effective information sharing between prison services and local councils to ensure that individuals leaving custody are not left homeless. Bryant emphasised the collaborative efforts between the Welsh Government, HM Prison, and Probation Service, as well as local authorities, to address the housing needs of individuals transitioning out of the criminal justice system.
The unfolding situation underscores the critical importance of providing adequate housing support to former prisoners to prevent them from falling into homelessness and reoffending. The collective efforts of policymakers, relevant authorities, and support services will be vital in addressing the challenges faced by individuals reentering society post-incarceration.