A place to call home: perspectives on offender community reintegration

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore offenders’ experiences of community reintegration facilitated by a supported housing scheme.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were derived from five semi-structured interviews with prolific offenders who were participating in a UK “north west housing association” scheme; a community reintegration programme for offenders released from prison.

Findings

Thematic analysis demonstrated four predominant themes, these were: “the decision to change”, “self-fulfilment”, “a place to call home” and “a suitable support system”. The themes are discussed in relation to the Good Lives Model.

Practical implications

Participation in the housing scheme was a key component of the reintegration process, which positively facilitated lifestyle change.

Originality/value

This research considers the often “unheard” perspectives of prolific offenders and highlights the significant role of community housing schemes in supporting successful community reintegration.

Citation

Tarpey, E. and Friend, H. (2016), "A place to call home: perspectives on offender community reintegration", The Journal of Forensic Practice, Vol. 18 No. 4, pp. 283-291. https://doi.org/10.1108/JFP-06-2016-0027