Older people in North East prisons face isolation, frailty, chronic illness, poor mobility and digital exclusion in buildings and regimes not designed for ageing. Many cannot access mainstream activity and spend long periods behind their doors. On release, they may struggle with housing, healthcare, benefits and basic digital systems, increasing the risk of crisis, homelessness and avoidable deterioration.

Recoop will work with prisons and partners in the North East to provide specialist peer support, age-appropriate wellbeing and purposeful activity, and practical preparation for release. Older people will receive help to remain active and connected, navigate prison life safely, build confidence, and prepare for healthcare, housing, benefits and digital systems after release.