A recent study has uncovered a concerning trend where more than one individual who has been released from prison passes away every day in the year following their release, particularly following a significant surge post-Covid.
Research conducted by Nacro, a social justice organization, revealed that individuals leaving prison face a higher likelihood of death within the initial three months compared to individuals aged over 75 throughout an entire year. The charity emphasized that many of these deaths could have been prevented, describing the situation as a tragic reality often overlooked by the public eye.
The report highlighted a significant increase in post-release mortality rates since the Covid-19 pandemic. According to the findings, individuals released currently face a 72% higher risk of dying within two weeks of their release compared to the period of 2019-2020.
Enver Solomon, the Chief Executive of Nacro, expressed deep concern, stating that the ongoing deaths of individuals post-release from prison represent a hidden tragedy that demands urgent attention. He emphasized the critical need for timely care and support during the initial weeks post-release, underscoring the impact of appropriate healthcare provision, including drug substitution therapy where necessary, access to medical professionals, and secure housing, in potentially preventing such tragedies.
To address the alarming number of avoidable deaths, Nacro urged the government to implement preventive measures during the critical pre-and post-release periods when individuals are most vulnerable.
Nacro’s report, titled “Reducing Deaths Among Prison Leavers,” highlighted that drug-related fatalities account for 40% of post-release deaths. The report also shed light on the disparity in the risk of drug-related deaths among former inmates, with those in the North East being six times more likely to die from substance-related incidents within two weeks compared to individuals released 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 to the report, a Ministry of Justice spokeswoman acknowledged the challenges faced by prison and probation staff. The MoJ highlighted initiatives to support vulnerable individuals post-release, including providing up to 12 weeks of accommodation after release, collaborating with the NHS for community-based drug treatment, and bolstering probation and community services through increased funding and recruitment efforts.