HOSTELS

Merseyside Probation Trust operate three bail/probation hostels, known as Approved Premises. These provide enhanced supervision for offenders who require 24 supervision in a residential setting, and for certain offenders on bail. There are around 100 Approved Premises around the country, and offenders may be required to stay at a hostel outside their county of residence.

Living at an Approved Premises can be tough, and requires residents to adhere to a strict programme of activities designed to address their offending, increase victim empathy and assist with any issues such as move-on accommodation, alcolhol or drug misuse, or finding employment.

The three Approved Premises run by Merseyside Probation Trust are Southwood, Merseybank and Canning House. All are male-only residences.

The Service also helps run an all-female hostel, managed by the Church of England Council for Voluntary Aid. It is one of only five all-female probation hostels in the country. It provides a secure environment for female offenders who require 24 hour supervision. The regime is constructively demanding, yet residents come to value the routine and support that the staff provide. For many, their stay at the hostel marks a true turning point in their lives.