“We need support when we go out”

A man released from HMP Humber in East Yorkshire under the Government’s early release scheme has said more support is needed to help prisoners on the outside.

Matthew Carter, 29, of Lincoln, was released this week after serving just over a third of a six-month sentence for theft.

He said he had been homeless since he was 18, which he said played a big part in his offending.

The Ministry of Justice said it was working with other agencies to avoid releasing prisoners without a place to go.

Asked what he and other prisoners thought when the early release scheme was announced, he said: “There were no celebrations. They let a lot of people out, but then most of them are recalled within a few weeks because they are homeless. .

“I’ve been to prison a few times and I think you should serve your full sentence.”

However, without support and a place to live, he said ex-prisoners are more likely to reoffend to survive.

He watched this week’s budget from the inside but said he had heard no mention of the prison system, although he welcomed the government’s commitment to build more homes.

Since being released, Mr. Carter said he has secured a job.

A Ministry of Justice spokesman said: “The new government inherited a justice system in crisis, with an early release scheme that did not give probation staff enough time to prepare prisoners for life on the outside, including where to go to release.

“Our new system allows staff to better prepare offenders to turn their backs on crime for good, and we are working with partners including local councils and charities to avoid them being released onto the streets.”

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