Life after prison for ex-offenders with intellectual disabilities

Aim: In the UK, it has been reported that 7% of people in prison have intellectual disabilities (ID). This research explores life after leaving prison for ex-offenders with ID. Method: Men screened positive for ID were recruited from prison establishments across the UK. Care managers/probation officers were also asked to participate. Ex-offenders were interviewed one month (T1 )and9 months (T2) after leaving prison, regarding their social networks, service utilisation, quality of life, mood, well-being and offending behaviours. Brief interviews were undertaken with care managers/offender managers. Results: Over 80 participants were referred to the project. Of those interviewed at T1, the majority scored as anxious and depressed, 30% had been rearrested at least once and 35% were living in restricted conditions (back in prison or in hospital secure units). Family members formed a key part of men’s social support networks. Social care and health care input was rare. Conclusions: The findings suggest ex-offenders with ID are extremely under-supported upon leaving prison and are at risk of re-offending.