Ripon House Approved Premises for Women

VIEW FROM THE ROOM

Angie shares her experiences of the hostel:

I am originally from the North East and when I was told by my probation officer that I was being released to Ripon House in Leeds I was scared. I had heard stories about the hostel and it felt that it was too far away from my family.
Just before I was due to be released I had a video link with Karen the Deputy Manager and she told me all about the hostel, the rules and how long I would have to stay at Ripon House.

I was pleased to speak to her because I was able to ask her questions about the hostel and she reassured me that the stories I had heard about the hostel weren't true.

I was released from prison in May and I now feel really settled at the hostel. The staff are lovely and helpful. My mum and dad have been down for a visit and I am now hoping to go back to the North East in the next couple of weeks.

The contact I had with Karen was really helpful and I think that I have gained in confidence since I have been at the hostel. It has also given me some space and time to make decisions about my life. The staff and residents are really friendly so don't be frightened about coming to a hostel if you haven't been to one before.