The number of people leaving prison homeless in Sussex, Kent and Surrey has risen by over two-thirds, standing now at 97%.
That’s according to recent Ministry of Justice data.
The social justice charity, Nacro, which runs services for people leaving prison, is calling for more investment in local services to tackle the problem.
In April 2023-2024 the number of prison leavers released into homelessness in Kent, Surrey and Sussex was 355 . In April 2024-2025 it increased to 700 – a 97% rise.
Campbell Robb, Chief Executive at Nacro, said: “Leaving prison without a home is the terrible consequence of a broken system.
“Last year, in Kent, Surrey and Sussex 700 people left prison homeless, making it incredibly difficult for them to move on in a positive way with their lives after prison.
"The need for a secure place to live will become even greater, as more people are likely to serve more of their sentences in the community under the proposed sentencing reforms.
“Despite recent investment, these figures show that further action is needed. Long-term joined-up support and housing are essential if we want people to rebuild their lives and reduce reoffending.
“We will continue to work with Government and all partners inside and outside of prison to do what we can to try and ensure people get the support they need on release.”
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