Advice for offenders

Apr 5, 2019

Advice for offenders – what is available?

Advice for offenders can be limited but there are always websites that can be utilised.

‘Prisoners Advice Service’ http://www.prisonersadvice.org.uk/  where there is a lot of information on a number of topics for example:  

  • Care for prisoners who are ill
  • Probation Complaints
  • Visits and a whole lot more

Being in prison can feel like you’re completely on your own and can be very difficult. There may be a number of questions that need answering and advice for offenders can be limited.

It is very important for an offender to use their time in prison effectively i.e utilising employment support programmes, planning for their release and preparing for life on the outside world.

Offenders may be entitled to certain benefits for themselves or their family, so it’s important to get the correct advice on this.

There are a number of websites that provide good advice for example:

GOV.uk https://www.gov.uk/life-in-prison 

 Turn2Us https://www.turn2us.org.uk/Your-Situation/A-prisoner 

Preparing for release from prison

Leaving prison although being an exciting time can also be a scary time with many challenges.

It’s never too early to start preparing for release from prison i.e housing options, community help, employment or benefits.

Having family support can make the transition back into the community a lot easier so try and involve them as much as possible.

If the thought of going straight back into work is a bit daunting then you could also consider volunteering somewhere to ease you back into a routine in a less pressured environment.

It is important to remember that you are not alone and there are many organisations/charities that are ready to help you and give you the support you need to get your life back on track.

Please check out HACROs service that could help support you or a friend or family member:

Caring Dads – https://hacro.org.uk/caring-dads

FOM – https://hacro.org.uk/friends-of-the-mount

Getting Ex-offenders into Work – https://hacro.org.uk/getting-ex-offenders-into-work