A strategy has been developed to bring together statutory and voluntary sector housing providers in the North East region with the prison and probation services, to create a common approach to planning for the housing of returning prisoners. This has resulted in the creation of the HARP protocol which seeks to address: Statutory housing authorities' duties towards the prevention of homelessness. Prison and probation's commitment to effective resettlement. The promotion of community safety. Maximising the contribution of RSL's and the voluntary sector to housing and supporting offenders. The protocol, which has been developed by the housing and offender management agencies in the region, has taken an approach which begins prior to a person going into custody, makes best use of the time spent in prison and plans for release. The framework also recognises the need for managed short notice action and support for prisoners.