Source · Select Committees · Justice Committee
Recommendation 18
18
Paragraph: 126
It is apparent that accommodation is a significant problem for some children being release from...
Conclusion
It is apparent that accommodation is a significant problem for some children being release from custody. It is unacceptable that a child should not know until the day of their release where they will live the day after. We agree with the recommendation made by HM Inspectorate of Prisons and HM Inspectorate of Probation that the Ministry of Justice must develop a national accommodation strategy for children 44 Children and Young People in Custody (part 2): The Youth Secure Estate and Resettlement released from custody. We acknowledge the commitment made by the Minister of State to return to the Committee to report on progress made in these areas.
Paragraph Reference:
126
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
The MoJ acknowledges the importance of suitable and stable accommodation, and accommodation secured sufficiently in advance prior to release for children and young people leaving custody. Suitable accommodation is one of the foundations of a constructive resettlement experience. Whilst the responsibility for securing suitable accommodation for children leaving custody primarily lies with local authorities, we recognise that there is a need for MoJ, Department for Education, and Ministry of Housing, Communities, and Local Government to work collaboratively in this space. Accommodation issues for children and young people leaving custody are prevalent, with issues such as; accommodation being secured too late for children leaving custody, sometimes being unsuitable or far away from a child or young person’s home area. The MoJ, through stakeholder engagement, is currently exploring how it can most effectively address and improve upon these accommodation issues. This engagement is intended to yield specific policy options that the MoJ and wider government can act upon.