A recent alarming study has revealed that more than one ex-convict passes away daily within the first year post-release, following a significant surge after the Covid-19 pandemic. Social justice organization Nacro’s research indicates that individuals leaving prisons face a higher likelihood of dying within three months than a typical person over 75 does in a full year, with many of these deaths being avoidable tragedies that often go unnoticed by the public.
The report highlights a drastic increase in post-release fatalities since the onset of the pandemic. Statistics show that individuals released today are 72% more prone to death within two weeks of release compared to the period of 2019-2020. Enver Solomon, Nacro’s Chief Executive, emphasized the urgent need for timely care and support during the crucial post-prison period to prevent unnecessary deaths, stressing the importance of providing proper healthcare, including drug substitution therapy, GP access, and secure housing upon release.
Nacro’s report, “Reducing Deaths Among Prison Leavers,” points out that 40% of post-release deaths are linked to drug-related incidents, underscoring the lack of attention given to probation-related fatalities compared to those occurring within prison walls. Shockingly, former inmates in the North East region are six times more likely to succumb to drug-related incidents within a fortnight post-release than those in the East of England.
The organization called for enhanced healthcare services, improved drug treatment programs, and increased efforts to combat homelessness among individuals leaving prison. In response, a Ministry of Justice spokeswoman acknowledged the challenges faced by prison and probation staff, particularly concerning individuals without stable housing or substance abuse issues. The government provides up to 12 weeks of accommodation upon release, collaborates with the NHS to facilitate community-based drug treatment, and is reinforcing probation and community services through a substantial funding boost and recruitment of 1,300 new officers this year.
