Supporting Prison Leavers

If you are approaching release from prison or youth detention, allow several months to arrange a suitable place to live. It can take time to find the right place.

Housing costs and prison

Universal Credit housing costs can be paid for up to six months if the prisoner is detained in prison for six months or less, or is on remand and received help with housing costs before going into prison. Contact the resettlement team for more information.

Housing benefit can continue for those serving 13 weeks or less. Those held in custody or on remand are entitled to Housing Benefit for up to 52 weeks.

If you have a mortgage, check whether you have mortgage insurance, or qualify for support for mortgage interest   Support for Mortgage Interest (SMI): Overview - GOV.UK which is a loan towards the mortgage interest. Otherwise contact your lender to see what options you have.

A partner or relative remaining in the accommodation may also be able to claim benefits and pay towards the accommodation.

  • Preparing for release

    There is resettlement support for prisoners nearing their release date; it includes help to find somewhere to live, with job seeking, training, benefits, health and debt advice. A DWP work coach will help organise benefit claims and with employment matters.  Supporting prison leavers: a guide to Universal Credit - GOV.UK

    If you are facing homelessness, ask your resettlement officer to refer you to your council's Housing Options team. We will ask about your housing situation and any health or other needs. We will work with you and any professionals supporting you to try and find you suitable housing.

    DUTY TO REFER

  • Discharged with no settled accommodation

    We will work with you to try and avoid this but should it happen you may want to think about temporary solutions such as staying with family and friends, or at a B&B. We can help with emergency accommodation in some circumstances.