Since 1992, I have been released seven times from this address, having completed sentences ranging from one year to three or four months, all for shoplifting. I doubt if the goods involved have ever exceeded £50 and on every occasion they have been recovered.

My problem is, over this period, no attempt has been made to find me an address. Without such, it is almost impossible to acquire the ID documents necessary to claim benefits. It is also difficult to obtain employment without settled accommodation or, indeed, access to proper hygiene facilities.

I am now 51 years old. There is a lot of talk about helping prisoners with drug problems and young offenders. It appears, however, that the attitude of "the system" to middle-aged offenders who are not junkies is one of complete indifference.

-Michael Deegan, HMP Lewes