The role of stable accommodation in reducing recidivism: what does the evidence tell us?

an article by Chris O’Leary (Based at King's College London, UK) published in Safer Communities Volume 12 Issue 1 (2013)

Abstract

Purpose
This paper aims to review the available evidence on the role of stable accommodation in reducing the risk of recidivism. It seeks to answer questions about the nature and extent of such a role, whether stable accommodation on its own plays a role or as part of an overall programme, and what the implications arising from the current evidence are for policy makers and practitioners.
Design/methodology/approach
The research strategy consisted of a number of steps. First, existing systematic reviews in the field were reviewed to identity relevant evidence. Following this, a standard search of the literature was undertaken to identity potential research for further consideration. Articles and books identified were subject to a three-part test to determine relevance and robustness of method.
Findings
The paper suggests that the evidence base is less than clear about the role of stable accommodation in reducing risk of recidivism. The extant literature can be classified as two types; the first utilises robust methods but fails to single out accommodation as a single intervention. The second often focuses on stable accommodation but fails to use Randomised Controlled Trial or quasi-experimental methods.
Research limitations/implications
Taken as a whole, it is clear that stable accommodation has a potential role in programmes aimed at reducing recidivism. The nature of that role, the causal mechanisms underlying that role and the methods used to increase stability of accommodation are not clear from the literature.
Originality/value
The paper provides a means of classifying the extant literature and assesses this literature in terms of its methodological robustness.

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