A recent report has uncovered a concerning trend where more than one former inmate dies daily in the year following their release, particularly after a significant increase post the Covid-19 pandemic. According to findings by the social justice organization Nacro, individuals leaving prison face a higher risk of death within three months compared to the mortality rate of people over 75 in a full year. The charity highlighted that many of these deaths are avoidable, emphasizing the severity of the situation as a tragedy that goes unnoticed by the public.
The study indicated a sharp rise in post-release fatalities since the onset of the pandemic. Researchers noted that individuals released presently are 72% more likely to pass away within two weeks of their release compared to the period of 2019-2020. Enver Solomon, the Chief Executive of Nacro, expressed concern over the hidden nature of this crisis and stressed the importance of timely care and support during the critical post-release period. He underscored the significance of ensuring former inmates have access to necessary healthcare, including drug substitution therapy where applicable, a general practitioner, and a safe housing environment, as these factors could be pivotal in saving lives.
The charity’s report, titled “Reducing Deaths Among Prison Leavers,” revealed that drug-related incidents account for 40% of post-release fatalities. It also pointed out that deaths occurring during probation receive less attention than those within prison walls. Notably, former prisoners in the North East region are six times more likely to succumb to drug-related issues within two weeks of release compared to those in the East of England.
Nacro called for enhancements in healthcare services, drug treatment programs, and efforts to reduce homelessness rates among ex-prisoners. In response to these concerns, a Ministry of Justice spokeswoman acknowledged the challenges faced by prison and probation staff and highlighted the vulnerability of individuals with substance abuse issues or lacking stable housing upon release. The spokeswoman outlined ongoing initiatives, such as providing up to 12 weeks of accommodation post-release, collaborating with the NHS to facilitate community-based drug treatment, and bolstering probation and community services through a substantial funding increase along with recruiting 1,300 new officers this year.
