Early release: 'We need support when we get out'

A man released from HMP Humber in East Yorkshire under the government's early release scheme said more support was needed to help prisoners on the outside.

Matthew Carter, 29, from Lincoln, was released this week after serving just over a third of a six-month sentence for shoplifting.

He said he had been homeless since the age of 18, which he said had played a big part in his offending.

The Ministry of Justice said it was working with other agencies to avoid prisoners being released without them having somewhere to go.

Asked what he and other prisoners thought when the early release scheme was announced, he said: "There wasn't any celebration. They are letting loads of people out, but then most of them are getting recalled within a few weeks because they are homeless.

"I've been to jail a few times and do believe you should serve your full sentence."

However, without support and somewhere to live, he said ex-prisoners were more likely to reoffend in order to survive.

He watched this week's Budget while he was inside but said he heard no mention of the prison system, although he welcomed the government's pledge to build more homes.

Since being released, Mr Carter said he had secured a job.

A Ministry of Justice spokesperson said: "The new government inherited a justice system in crisis, with an early release scheme that did not give probation staff enough time to get prisoners ready for life on the outside, including somewhere to go on release.

"Our new system allows staff to better prepare offenders to turn their backs on crime for good and we are working with partners, including local councils and charities, to avoid them being released on to the street."

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