Number of people leaving prison homeless in Yorkshire up by 69% in past year alone

Social justice charity Nacro has raised fears it could lead to more people reoffending

Author: Matt SoanesPublished 15th Aug 2025
Last updated 15th Aug 2025

The number of people leaving prison homeless in Yorkshire has ballooned by 69% in the past year alone, according to new data.

1,585 people left prison in the region without a permanent place to live last year, compared to just 940 in 2023-24.

Social justice charity Nacro, which runs support services for former prison inmates, has called for more investment to tackle the issue, raising fears it could lead to further offending.

Reoffending costs the UK an estimated £23.6bn each year.

Campbell Robb, Chief Executive at Nacro, said: “Leaving prison without a home is the terrible consequence of a broken system.

“The need for a secure place to live will become even greater, as more people are likely to serve more of their sentences in the community under the proposed sentencing reforms.

“Despite recent investment, these figures show that further action is needed. Long-term joined-up support and housing are essential if we want people to rebuild their lives and reduce reoffending.

“We will continue to work with Government and all partners inside and outside of prison to do what we can to try and ensure people get the support they need on release.”

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