Measuring the mandatory resettlement plan Jack is a young male and has complex needs, therefore was entitled to Level 3 Mandatory resettlement pathway. In Table 1 we have considered Jack’s release plan and measured this against activities and outcomes as set out in HMPPS resettlement responsibilities and TTG Minimum Specification PI Accountability and Ownership Annex A.
ACCOMMODATION AND ACCOUNTABILITY Activity
Accountability all actions: CRC to provide - (if host CRC to provide
Level 1: All prisoners • Identify any housing needs • Identify and provide bespoke advice on housing options • Confirm housing status and need Level 2: Identified Need • Complete housing referrals and assist with application processes (this should include any suitable housing providers including social housing, charitable housing provision and private providers) • Provide follow-up support on applications made • Support bidding processes for social housing applications • Support application for bond scheme if available • Follow up on referrals in advance of release Level 3: Identified and Complex Needs • Subject to the individual’s consent, refer those who are at risk of homelessness to the Local Authority in accordance with Section 10 of the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017 • To support effective operation of the Duty to Refer (Section 10, Homelessness Reduction Act 2017), develop partnership arrangements with Local Authorities and prisons to facilitate development of effective support plans • Support registration as homeless if released with no fixed abode (NFA) on day of release and ensure that the Local Authority are aware, in accordance with their duties under the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017 • Support access to emergency accommodation • Support access to safe, settled accommodation that reduces risk or (re) victimisation or the triggering of trauma related symptoms
Achieved
PM housing need and status were identified NO appointments were for initial referrals – no applications made
NO Jack’s plan included the need to present as homeless at local authority housing department before 4pm that day / no support provided to access safe, settled accommodation that reduces the risk of trauma related symptoms
* Y=Yes, N=No, PM=Part Met “Housing authorities and homeless services have a vital role to play in prison release support but should not be expected to work reactively when people with multiple and complex needs are released without anywhere safe to stay, as it was the case for Jack. The involvement of these agencies should be well planned and integrated with health and social care. Multi-agency responsibilities for adult safeguarding and the extreme risk of death among this cohort mean that it is no longer acceptable to overlook instances of neglect and acts of omission where people are released from prison to the street without meaningful and purposeful plans. As case law and learning from Safeguarding Adult Reviews (SARs) develop, so too will expectations for good lawful practice.”
— Bruno Ornelas, Head of Service and Safeguarding Lead - VOICES 14
