Prisoners in Perth and Kinross are being supported by the local council to ease their transition back into normal life after their release. Perth and Kinross Council (PKC) has implemented a new process to provide assistance to prisoners, ensuring they have access to essential services such as finding accommodation and registering with a GP.
The initiative comes in response to the Prisoners (Early Release) (Scotland) Act, which allows short-term prisoners to be released early after serving two-fifths of their sentence. The council identified challenges faced by ex-offenders in accessing medical treatment and securing long-term housing, prompting them to adapt their procedures to better support individuals reintegrating into the community.
At a recent meeting of PKC’s Housing and Social Wellbeing Committee, Bailie Mike Williamson highlighted the historical difficulties prisoners faced in obtaining medical care upon release. He praised the council’s efforts in addressing these issues and commended the coordination of voluntary throughcare, which includes ensuring that all short-term prisoners have access to necessary support services.
Eleanor Lindsay, PKC’s Community Justice Quality Improvement team leader, explained how the council has been working on facilitating GP registration for prisoners before their release to ensure continuity of care. Additionally, measures have been put in place to help prisoners secure housing arrangements prior to their release, with the aim of providing a stable living environment post-incarceration.
Following the successful trial in Perth and Kinross, there are considerations to expand this support model to neighbouring local authorities. The council emphasised the importance of evaluating the effectiveness of these initiatives before committing to long-term implementation to ensure the best outcomes for both residents and the council.
Overall, the collaboration between Perth and Kinross Council and various support services highlights a proactive approach to assisting prisoners in their reintegration journey. By addressing challenges related to healthcare and housing, the council is playing a crucial role in facilitating a smoother transition for individuals returning to the community after serving their time.