Unsuitable placements and short stays are hampering Approved Premises (APs), according to HM Inspectorate of Probation (HMIP).
APs are hostels for people who pose a high risk and have recently left prison. A prison-leaver can go to one if their licence stops them from returning to their previous home, or if they have no fixed address to go to.
HMIP set out its findings in a Research and Analysis Bulletin published on 28 February. Its title is “Bridging Custody and Community: the Role of APs in Successful Reintegration”. The bulletin acknowledges the value of the hostels as well as the difficulties they face. It asks for greater clarity about what the premises aim to achieve.
The Chief Inspector of Probation, Martin Jones, and his team have not yet finished inspecting all 104 APs in England and Wales. So far the findings are mixed. Sites have split fairly evenly between those rated good, those rated acceptable and those that need to improve.
The hostels may soon have to take more people. Once the Sentencing Act 2026 takes full effect, APs are likely to see wider use.
The inspectors identify three problems that can undermine the main aim of APs, which is to help people reintegrate. These are unsuitable placements, short stays and an overly rigid approach to national policies.
They also raise concerns about staffing levels, the resources open to the hostels and weak liaison with other agencies. Opposition from people who live near the buildings adds a further challenge.
HMIP found that the system works better where staff are on site 24 hours a day and teams collaborate. It wants closer co-ordination with local authorities, health providers and Probation Services, both regionally and locally.
The bulletin also calls for more training and support for everyone who works in APs. Staff often work with people who can be difficult. Such residents have grown used to the strict discipline of prison and find it hard to adjust to life outside. The inspectorate says the working week must make room for staff development as a priority.
