Housing sex offenders
Assistant Chief Constable Allan Burnett, Fife Constabulary
Sharon Stirrat, Service Manager, Criminal Justice Service, Social Work Services
Diana MacLean, Housing Manager (Policy and Performance), Scottish Borders Housing Association
Willie McAuley, Policy & Strategy Co-ordinator, Northern Ireland Sex Offender Strategic Management Committee
Housing sex offenders is a contentious issue that frequently dominates the tabloid press, adding to stereotypes, myths and false perceptions of sex offenders. The panel maintained that it is an unfounded belief that sex offenders cannot be rehabilitated and reincorporated into society.
They also said risks associated with housing sex offenders can be effectively reduced through risk assessments, multi-agency working relationships, and information sharing. Speakers agreed that while the risk associated with housing sex offenders can be minimized, it can not be eliminated.
There is no typical sex offender, which adds to the challenges of finding suitable accommodation. Address profiling can assist in allocating housing by determining a suitable geographic area, ensuring there are links in the community and limiting proximity to vulnerable groups. Stable accommodation assists in risk management by improving the ability to monitor sex offenders and decreasing the likelihood of re-offending.
Interagency co-operation and positive working relationships will require trust, clear protocols, and regular review meetings. Ultimately there is no blanket solution which will address all concerns, but legislation and inter agency supports are essential.