Going into custody doesn’t have to mean losing your home. Whether you own your home, rent privately, or are a tenant with the Housing Executive or a housing association, there may be ways of keeping your home while you’re in prison.
This will, however, depend on your individual circumstances and your ability to pay your housing costs while in prison. Keeping your home may not always be the best option, especially if this means you will end up in debt after your release.
If you were homeless before you went into prison or you can’t go back to your former home, you will need to arrange alternative housing for when you leave prison. The worst case scenario could involve you having nowhere to go upon release.
Whatever your circumstances, it is very important that you get advice about your housing situation. Housing Rights has advice staff working in Hydebank, Magilligan and Maghaberry prisons. You can talk to these people if you're worried about your housing options or you can ask a friend or family member to call our advice line.