After spending ten years in prison, Simon was in financial difficulties and having to rely on family for help. Read how support from Better Off Finance got him back on his feet.
Leaving prison after a lengthy sentence presents many
difficulties; one of the most common and most challenging surrounds money and
finances. Many offenders are already in debt upon entering the prison system,
and this situation is often made worse while they are incarcerated (creditors
can also take action even if someone is in prison), meaning that upon release,
their financial situation is often very unstable. This makes people more likely
to reoffend in order to pay off debt and provide an income: The Ministry of
Justice found that 67% of ex-prisoners who slept rough went on to commit
another crime within a year.
Upon his release from prison after 10 years, Simon* was left
homeless and had to resort to sleeping on his son’s couch. With no accommodation
of his own or even any clothes, Simon was having to rely on his son for very
basic supplies, knocking his confidence and leaving him feeling low. His
probation officer referred him to the Better Off Finance programme to support
him in getting back on his feet.
His Key Worker helped Simon apply for housing, and also successfully
obtained a grant to allow him to buy a bed and clothing for when he moved into
his own home. He told us: ‘I am now more comfortable having a bed to sleep in
and don’t feel untidy anymore. This has boosted by self-respect and confidence.’
While in prison, Simon had undertaken many courses to boost
his qualifications, and upon release decided he wanted to work towards his
forklift qualification. He successfully secured his CSCS qualification, which allows
him to work on building sites, and means he is one step closer to his goal of
becoming a forklift instructor.
Support from Better Off Finance and his Key Worker have
allowed Simon to get on the right track for a brighter future. His job search
is ongoing, but he is hopeful that he will find employment in the near future.
He said: ‘The Better Off Finance programme has been
extremely helpful in my small step back to my own independence and moving
forward.
‘It is a very supportive programme, my Key Worker was friendly
and approachable, and I would recommend it to anyone needing assistance in
changing their situation. [Better Off Finance] has given me my confidence back.’
