Over 80% of Prison Leavers Face Unemployment: A National Challenge for Rehabilitation and Reintegration.
50 thousand ex-offenders leave prisons in England and Wales every year. The number are likely to increase under recent government’s policy.
Most of these individuals are eager to reintegrate into society. They want to turn their lives around, find employment, contribute to the economy, and become respected members of the community. With the right support, they have every chance of succeeding.
One would only hope that these fellow citizens having successfully rehabilitated thanks to efforts of criminal justice system would reintegrate to the society.
However, only 19.3% of them will be employed within 6 weeks of the release, according to Government statistics and 31.1% would find a job withing six months after release.
These figures indicate that a significant proportion of ex-prisoners remain unemployed within the first six months following their release. While data for the three-year mark is not specified, the trend suggests that many face ongoing challenges in securing employment long after their release.
Employment is a critical factor in reducing reoffending rates. Efforts to improve employment outcomes for ex-prisoners are essential for successful reintegration into society and for enhancing public safety.