How To Write A Housing Support Letter For Someone Leaving Prison

A housing support letter is a vital component of a prisoner’s parole application, particularly when it comes to demonstrating stability and reducing the risk of reoffending. One of the most important considerations for the Parole Board in the UK is whether the individual has a suitable and secure place to live upon release. Without confirmed accommodation, even prisoners deemed safe for release may be refused parole. This is where a strong housing support letter comes into play.

In this guide, we’ll explain what a housing support letter is, who can write one, and what to include. We’ll also provide a detailed example that you can customise for your own use. If someone you know is in prison and preparing for a parole hearing, and you’re willing to offer them a place to live, this letter can have a real impact on their chances of being released and successfully reintegrating into the community.

What Is A Housing Support Letter?

A housing support letter confirms that you are willing to offer accommodation to someone being released from prison. It also outlines the nature of the accommodation, how long it will be available, and any conditions or rules that apply.
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The Parole Board, probation officers, or housing teams want to see that the person has:
- A stable address upon release
- A clean, safe, and secure place to live
- The support of someone who understands the commitment
- Practical arrangements in place (e.g., furniture, utility bills, house rules)

This letter plays a significant role in building a solid release plan and often supports parole applications or resettlement planning.

When Should You Write a Parole Support Letter?

A housing support letter is a written statement provided to the Parole Board by someone offering accommodation to the prisoner upon release. It confirms the offer of housing and outlines the conditions and support available at that address. This letter helps assure the Parole Board that the individual will not be homeless or placed in unsuitable accommodation, and that they will have a supportive environment as they transition back into society.

This type of support is particularly powerful because stable housing is a key factor in reducing the likelihood of reoffending. It gives the individual a sense of security, structure, and responsibility – all of which are essential for rebuilding their life after prison.

Who Can Write a Housing Support Letter?

Typically, this letter is written by someone with a personal relationship with the prisoner often a family member, close friend, or partner. However, it may also come from a landlord, social worker, charity, or transitional housing provider. The most important requirement is that the writer genuinely has the authority to offer accommodation and is willing to support the person’s reintegration.

If you are planning to write such a letter, you should ensure that you are in a position to make a formal offer of accommodation. You should also be prepared to follow through on that offer and, if needed, liaise with probation services or other support organisations.

When Should You Submit a Housing Support Letter?

The housing support letter should be included in the parole dossier well in advance of the hearing. If you're unsure about timing, it’s best to speak with the prisoner’s solicitor or their prison-based offender supervisor. This letter may be one of several documents considered by the Parole Board, alongside psychological assessments, probation reports, and other personal statements.

If possible, you should also be prepared to provide any supporting documentation, such as tenancy agreements or utility bills in your name, to validate the housing offer.

What to Include In A Housing Support Letter

A housing support letter should be clear, factual, and supportive. The tone should be respectful and professional – remember, you are addressing a formal panel that has the authority to decide someone’s future. Below are the key elements to include:

‍1. Your Identity and Relationship to the Prisoner
Begin by stating your full name, your relationship to the prisoner, and a bit about your background. Mention how long you’ve known the individual and what kind of support you’re able to provide.

‍2. Description of the Accommodation
Clearly describe the type of accommodation you’re offering – whether it’s a room in your house, a self-contained flat, or shared housing. Mention the address or at least the area, and confirm whether it’s your own property, a rental, or managed by an organisation.

‍3. Confirmation of the Housing Offer
Be explicit that the prisoner is welcome to stay at your property if granted parole. Confirm that the accommodation will be available immediately upon their release and state how long they are permitted to stay.

‍4. Terms and Expectations
Outline any reasonable expectations or house rules, such as contributing to chores or attending probation appointments. You can also mention if you are in contact with probation and happy to cooperate with their requirements.

‍5. Emotional and Practical Support
Describe the wider support you will provide beyond just housing. This could include helping them apply for benefits, find work, register with a GP, or stay connected with recovery programmes or community groups.6.

Final Statement of Support
Finish by reaffirming your belief that the individual is ready to rejoin society and that you are fully committed to supporting their reintegration.

Housing Support Letter Template

Below is an example letter you can use as a starting point. You should personalise it with your details and adapt it to fit your circumstances:

To Whom It May Concern,

My name is [Your Full Name], and I am writing to confirm that I am willing and able to provide accommodation to [Prisoner’s Full Name] upon their release from prison. I am [state relationship, e.g., their sister], and I have known [Name] for [X years].

[Name] will be welcome to live at my home, which is located at [full address]. They will have access to their own bedroom, as well as shared access to the kitchen, bathroom, and living room. The property is safe, clean, and in a quiet neighbourhood. All bills and utilities are covered, and [he/she/they] will not be expected to pay rent immediately upon release.

This accommodation will be available for a minimum of [length of time, e.g., six months], and I am happy to continue this arrangement for as long as needed while [Name] gets back on their feet. I understand the importance of stability, and I am committed to providing a secure environment.

We have discussed basic house rules, including no illegal substances, no disruptive visitors, and attending probation or support appointments. I will support [Name] emotionally and practically, including helping with benefit applications, job searches, and general day-to-day reintegration.

I fully consent to this arrangement and understand the responsibilities involved in supporting someone on release. Should you require any further details, I can be contacted at [your phone number and email].

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,  
[Your Full Name]  
[Your Address]  
[Your Phone Number and Email]  
[Date]
  

Providing housing support is one of the most meaningful and tangible ways you can help someone reintegrate after prison. Your letter doesn’t need to be overly formal or full of legal jargon it just needs to be honest, supportive, and clearly structured. By writing a strong housing support letter, you not only help increase the person’s chances of being granted parole but also set the foundation for a successful new chapter in their life.

If you're unsure about what to include, try to put yourself in the shoes of the Parole Board. They want reassurance that the person will not be left without a home and that they will be supported by someone who understands the seriousness of the commitment. Your willingness to offer that support – and to put it in writing – is powerful.