Chief inspector calls for "greater understanding" after reported attack on Sunderland probation housing
Five windows were smashed following a reported attack on the building
A report praising the work of a facility which supports newly-released prisoners has also highlighted nearby “community tensions”.
The chief inspector of probation services, Martin Jones, has now called for “greater understanding” in the local community after an incident at Pennywell House, in Hylton Road, saw five windows smashed.
Pennywell House is an approved premises facility which provides accommodation and support for potentially high-risk individuals on probation or released from prison who are being integrated back into society.
A recent inspection of Pennywell House highlighted “community tensions” and referenced damage to the building “caused during an incident in February 2026”.
Speaking to the Echo, Mr Jones said: “There was an incident in which people were reported to have thrown items at the windows causing five windows to be broken.
“You can imagine if you are someone who has just been released from prison and an an incident like this happens, it can be quite disturbing.”
Whilst understanding of public concerns about the presence of such a facility, Mr Jones was also keen to alleviate fears.
He said: “Firstly, you need to consider the alternatives which are people leaving prison and ending up homeless or in bail hostels, or without any support. We know that being homeless is one of the biggest factors for reoffending.
“A lot of concerns in the community stem from a lack of understanding. I’ve spent 30 years working in the justice system, and 99% of people currently in prison are going to be released at some point and places like Pennywell House provide means of managing their rehabilitation and integration back into society, whilst keep both these people and the public safe.
“My own daughter’s nursery was located next to an approved premises, but I took confidence from knowing the people working their were doing a good job.
“The reality is these are false fears, with no evidence to back it up.”
The inspection, which took place in March, referred the incident to His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) after the damaged windows had still not been fixed despite the incident “taking place five or six weeks ago”.
Mr Jones added: “It’s unacceptable that such visible damage had been left unaddressed for a prolonged period, particularly given the safety implications and the message this conveyed to residents, staff, and the local community.
“I’ve been assured this work has now been done.”
The inspection report at Pennywell House Approved Premises received an overall rating of good, and Mr Jones was keen to praise the facility’s staff, who were described a “clear strength”.
He said: “We found a committed and capable staff team delivering a good service in challenging circumstances. Residents were treated with dignity and respect, and their relationships with staff were positive and purposeful.
“Pennywell House is doing a good job of keeping people safe.”
The report identified how public protection arrangements were effective, with “staff sharing information appropriately and maintaining a good oversight of risk”. Multi-agency working was also well established, which “helped residents access a wide range of provision to address substance misuse, mental health, and resettlement needs”.
However, inspectors found that the physical environment presented “ongoing challenges”.
They added: “Long-standing facilities issues and limited space affected the quality and dignity of the environment for residents and staff and required sustained attention.”
Mr Jones added: “This is ultimately the responsibility of the Prison Service and the investment in their estate. Overall, Pennywell House has delivered a good service in challenging circumstances.”
Following the report, a A Ministry of Justice spokesperson said: “We welcome the inspectorate’s recognition of our brilliant and committed staff at Pennywell House and their pivotal role they play in protecting the public.
“We’re boosting probation with up to £700 million of additional funding by 2028, recruiting a further 1,300 probation officers on top of the 2,300 already committed, and are investing in new technology to reduce admin so staff can focus on work that reduces reoffending.”