Prisoners & ex-offenders

Get free help and support from Shelter if you’re in prison or have just been released and need housing advice.

This content applies to England only

More useful information

Your partner may be able to claim housing benefit when you are in prison, even if their name is not on the tenancy.

A discretionary housing payment could help you with rent arrears that built up when you were in prison.

You can get help planning your housing for when you are released – don’t end up homeless or sleeping on the streets.

You may get housing benefit for a rented home for up to 52 weeks if you are on remand. Find out how.

Don’t give up your council home in return for the promise of a new tenancy without getting the agreement in writing.

You can take action when you are in prison to prevent being evicted.