Prison Insider: People in prison across the world are among the most marginalised part of the population. Many have physical or mental health problems and experience difficulties relating to addictive behaviour, cut ties, poverty or periods of homelessness. Upon their release, they are often in precarious situations and stigmatised and are hit hard by the housing crisis. But without a stable habitation, what hope do they have for building a future in society?

In a series of four articles, Prison Insider explores problems encountered in the Lyon metropolitan area and elsewhere (Canada, Finland and more). This unique geographical focus provides interesting insights and food for thought for other areas experiencing similar crises and dynamics.

The people interviewed in this series generally use “accommodations” to refer to temporary arrangements and “housing” when discussing longer-term solutions. However, in certain situations, the lines between the two concepts tend to blur. That is why we chose to pay particular attention to the notion of “habitation”, which is broader and more inclusive than the ideas of accommodation and housing. “Habitation” captures, in all its diversity and complexity, the myriad ways in which people find meaning in their homes.

 Without a roof or a choice explores the problems encountered by people in prison and some food for thought and potential solutions from those who assist them in finding permanent habitations.

Read series here: Without a roof or a choice