Characteristics of people attending psychiatric clinics in inner Sydney homeless hostels

Abstract

The high rates of substance use and mental disorder among homeless people in inner Sydney confirms the need for increased access to treatment for these conditions in this setting. Homelessness among those with mental illness might be reduced by developing alternative housing models, and supporting people with multiple problems to retain tenancy.

The rising health, social and economic costs of Australia's ageing prisoner population

“…The serious nature of many older offenders’ crimes often precludes diversion into the community or compassionate release. At the end of their prison sentence, aged care facilities are often reluctant or unable to accommodate ex‐offenders, who may have prominent behavioural disturbance, which in turn places this group at an increased risk of homelessness 9 . Multisectoral collaboration is required to devise feasible solutions 7 , 8…”

“…Continuity of care programs for older prisoners following release are rare. More research is required to determine how to improve service delivery to older prisoners as well as post‐release care 8 , 9 …”

“…This becomes apparent on release from prison and can result in homelessness. A recent study of over 2000 patients attending psychiatric clinics at several inner Sydney homeless hostels reported that 28% of patients had recently been released from prison 9 . Notwithstanding human rights and ethical questions about health and ageing within prison, there is an economic cost of incarcerating older offenders who may be frail and cognitively impaired 21 .…”

“…Assessment and management plans are needed before these costs become unsustainable. Investment in continuity of care programs (and their evaluation) that are initiated pre‐release and continue in the community with stable accommodation could potentially have an impact on re‐offending, as recidivism rates are reportedly higher in homeless former prisoners 9 , 22 …”

“…At the end of their prison sentence, aged care facilities are often reluctant or unable to accommodate ex-offenders, who may have prominent behavioural disturbance, which in turn places this group at an increased risk of homelessness. 9 Multisectoral collaboration is required to devise feasible solutions. 7,8 Incarceration costs in Australia rank fourth highest among Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development countries, at $109 500 per prisoner per year.…”