🔒 Lack of housing for released prisoners causing concern

The Conditional Release Board has expressed concern over the lack of suitable housing facilities for prisoners released on licence. The board has urged the government to concentrate on enhancing rehabilitation services rather than imposing harsher sentences. It believes that a support network is crucial for the success of released offenders and that the current lack of housing options is hindering their reintegration into society. 🏡

Deputy Governor Franz Manderson, while presenting the board's report covering the last four years, underscored the need for a holistic approach that tackles the root causes of offending behaviour and emphasises rehabilitative programmes and post-release support. Between 2018 and 2022, the board processed 64-75 applications each year for conditional release from inmates who had served 60% of their sentences. Out of the 356 prisoners who applied during this period, 200 (56%) were granted conditional release. However, this was revoked for 42 individuals (21% of those released) due to re-offending. 📄

The board is advocating for a better understanding of custodial sentences and the importance of investing in rehabilitative programmes, measures to combat drug use in custody, and increased post-release support. HMP Northward, however, continues to struggle with providing rehabilitation services due to under-investment, the state of the prison facility, and a lack of access to meaningful training or education. Home Affairs Minister Sabrina Turner is advancing plans to construct a new prison, estimated to cost around $150 million. 🏗️