PRISONERS should be allowed out into the community to support disabled and elderly people, according to a report published today.

After carrying out an extensive survey of prisons in England and Wales, the Prison Reform Trust is calling for criminals to be treated as citizens and given more opportunities to take responsibility in order to reduce the risk of re-offending.

The charity's report, Barred Citizens, praises the work of Kirklevington Grange Prison, near Yarm, Stockton, which has recently allowed inmates to help at a local horse-riding school for disabled people, work on a farm and help disabled people with their shopping.

Researchers believe that more prisoners should be allowed to go into the community, following risk assessments, to work as volunteers.

Their comments were backed by Suzanne Anthony, governor of Kirklevington Grange, who said giving prisoners responsibilities contributed to a safer society.

She said: "Community placements represent a significant step on the road to successful resettlement.

"Prisoners are able to give something back to the community, and in return gain self-respect and a sense of citizenship by working on behalf of others."

The report also says prisoners should be trained to help vulnerable and suicidal inmates, to offer employment and housing advice and to help others overcome drug and alcohol problems.

It also found that the Prison Service should involve prisoners in decision-making so they could contribute to the running of their prison.

But the report was condemned by the North of England Victims' Association, whose chairman, David Hines, described it as "another kick in the teeth" for victims and their families.

He said: "It seems they are doing this just to antagonise the victims. These people are in prison to be punished for whatever they have done."