Crime Solicitors

The Welsh government has launched new measures to ensure that prisoners who leave prison will have access to secure accommodation, rather than being placed in bed and breakfast accommodation on their release.

The Welsh government has published a National Pathway – the first of its kind in the UK – which aims to improve the way the organisations work with prison-leavers.

The National Pathway was developed after extensive consultation with organisations such as Shelter Cymru and the Welsh Local Government Association (WLGA).

The Pathway pays particular attention to the needs of people leaving custody to prevent them from becoming homeless – thereby improving their resettlement into society and reducing their risk of re-offending.

In the future, prisoners facing homelessness will begin to receive support 56 days before their release.

The Pathway also clarifies the roles and responsibilities of all the agencies and organisations involved in the process, resulting in a more coordinated approach and better support for people leaving custody.

Speaking at Cwm Taf Youth Offending Service, Communities Minister Lesley Griffiths, said:

“Wales has been recognised for the forward thinking approach we have taken to preventing homelessness.

“The National Pathway puts us ahead of the rest of the UK in terms of our efforts to prevent prison-leavers from becoming homeless or ending up in B&Bs.

“The Pathway is already being used by some organisations, with very positive results – I am impressed with the commitment shown by community rehabilitation companies, youth offending teams and local authorities.

“I am pleased to hear how they have been working together to improve the life chances of people leaving custody – and reduce the instances of young people being placed in Bed & Breakfasts.

“There is no doubt a stable accommodation situation is a key factor in helping to break the cycle of offending.”

Duncan Lewis Criminal Lawyers – Prisoners’ Rights

Duncan Lewis criminal lawyers can advise prisoners on their rights in custody, including legal advice on appeals against convicting and sentence, Parole Board applications, licence conditions, probation issues, assaults in prison and disciplinary matters, and access to healthcare and mental health services in prison.

There are Duncan Lewis offices nationwide and our criminal defence lawyers are available 24/7 and regularly attend police stations, courts and prisons, including youth courts and YOIs.

For expert legal advice on criminal law and prisoners’ rights, call Duncan Lewis criminal lawyers on 0333 772 0409.

For 24/7 help at a police station, call the Duncan Lewis 24-Hour Helpline on 0333 772 0607.