My son was in an Approved Premises (AP) because his probation officer wouldn’t let him come home. She refused because the police had been called to our address prior to his arrest. Both my husband and I were comfortable with him returning home, but she wouldn't allow it. After only two weeks out, he was told to find alternative living arrangements. Feeling pressured and anxious, he had a mental breakdown and visited the doctor, where he panicked and left when the doctor notified Bushey Fields. Bushey Fields told the doctor to call the police.When the doctor called the police, my son was recalled to prison.

My son would’ve been ok if he had been allowed to come home where he would’ve got the support and have no pressure of finding somewhere to live.
This situation is not unique to my son; many ex-offenders find themselves in similar predicaments. They are often set up to fail before their release, with insufficient preparation and support, particularly when it comes to mental health care. Probation officers play a crucial role in reintegrating ex-offenders into society, yet the focus has been primarily on surveillance and compliance rather than support and rehabilitation.
It also seems to be down to the individual probation officer as to where they can live when they are released as I have found out since that others have been allowed home even though the police have been called to that address. 

my son is now back in prison for another 12 months because his probation officer has made him out to be monster. All he wanted was to get help from his gp. 
Statistics reveal that around 40% of short-sentence prisoners reoffend within a year of release. One contributing factor is the lack of adequate post-release support, which could potentially reduce reoffending rates. Moreover, Mental Health Foundation reports highlight that mental health issues are prevalent among offenders, with estimates suggesting over 90% of prisoners have at least one mental health disorder.

Instead of treating these ex-offenders with a punitive approach, there must be a shift towards providing comprehensive support that addresses their mental health needs. Probation officers should be equipped with the necessary training and resources to help ex-offenders transition smoothly back into society. They should work collaboratively with mental health services, housing officers, and employment agencies to create a holistic reintegration plan tailored to each individual's needs.

The government and relevant agencies must acknowledge the importance of supporting ex-offenders through this vulnerable transition. By advocating for more supportive roles for probation officers, we can facilitate better outcomes for these individuals, ultimately benefiting society as a whole.

Please sign this petition to urge policy makers and relevant authorities to prioritize support over surveillance, and to provide the necessary training and resources for probation officers. Your signature can help create a system where ex-offenders are given a fair chance to rebuild their lives.

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