Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, what plans his Department has further its co-operation with (a) churches and (b) prison ministries to help prisoners re assimilate into communities after release from prison.

In England and Wales; Prison chaplaincies are proactive in building local community links, recognising the value of a released prisoner having the opportunity to join a new and positive community.

Working with faith-based organisations, such as Caring for Ex-Offenders and Prison Advice and Care Trust; Prison chaplaincy teams assist in introducing volunteer mentors to prisoners, whilst in custody; with a view to building relationships with a prisoner that will continue on release.

The Welcome Directory, a nationwide directory of faith communities who have identified themselves as places that will provide welcome support for people leaving prison, continues to expand in collaboration with HMPPS Chaplaincy. The directory is available on-line and can be used by prison chaplains, resettlement agencies, and charities, as well as those who have left prison. With over 90 registered faith communities across England and Wales, this gives our Chaplaincy teams a considerable network to liaise with, to ensure that prisoners can continue to receive pastoral support on release from custody.