The specific reintegration needs of individual prisoners are met through an individual multi-agency plan to maximise the likelihood of successful reintegration into the community.

98. Prior to release, prisoners have an up-to-date plan for addressing outstanding rehabilitation needs, which is managed in partnership with the community-based responsible officer.

The following indicators describe evidence that may show this expectation being met, but do not exclude other ways of achieving it.

  • Prisoners understand and are meaningfully engaged in their plans.
  • A designated staff member takes responsibility for tracking progress against identified targets and reviewing these targets periodically.
  • Prisoners are given the opportunity to spend their last months in custody in the area where they will be discharged.
  • All necessary work required to support a prisoner’s release to the community is completed in good time for release.
  • Risk and support needs are shared with the community-based responsible officer at a meeting in advance of release.
  • Prisoners can request a ‘through the gate’ mentor and have the opportunity to meet them in advance of release.
  • Prisoners understand the requirements of their licence and have the opportunity to discuss their rights and responsibilities prior to release.

99. Prisoners are given all necessary practical support ready for their day of release.

The following indicators describe evidence that may show this expectation being met, but do not exclude other ways of achieving it.

  • Facilities are available before discharge to launder clothes that have been in storage for long periods.
  • On release prisoners receive all their property.
  • Eligible prisoners receive discharge grants and money for travel.
  • Prisoners are given detailed travel directions.
  • Prisoners are able to make a phone call and charge their mobile phone in advance of release.
  • Suitable clothes and bags are available to discharged prisoners who do not have them.
  • Prisoners are given information about sources of help and support in the community.
  • Prisoners who need additional support are met at the gate and taken to their initial appointments.

Human rights standards

Human rights standards focus on assistance prior to release, providing aftercare and ensuring prisoners are equipped with appropriate documents and adequate clothing, have suitable homes and work to go to, and have the means to reach their destination and maintain themselves in the period immediately following release. See EPR 107.1; SMR 90; 108.1.