Welsh Women’s Aid are pleased that the UK Government have made the decision to bar rape, serious child sex and grooming offenders from the early release scheme which will see perpetrators released either a third of a way through their sentence or halfway. We are concerned however that not all survivors will be able to benefit from this reduction in expansion.
We are incredibly concerned that the government is allowing survivors to face the consequences of the prison overcrowding crisis. Survivors of violence against women and girls, domestic abuse and sexual violence will be left particularly vulnerable, as many will not be contacted and kept informed. Whilst the UK Government has committed to a national helpline to be available by October to support those affected by the changes, we must ensure that this is operational from the first day.
Sara Kirkpatrick, CEO of Welsh Women’s Aid said:
I am delighted that the Prime Minister has taken so seriously the concerns raised by survivors and specialist services. It is important that reforms of our justice system maintain the confidence of victims and survivors. However, many survivors will not benefit from the exemptions published today.”
Perpetrators of VAWDASV often see sentences of less than 12 months, meaning these survivors will not be contacted in regard to the early release scheme. Those that are contacted do not yet have any reassurance of when their perpetrator will be released. Survivors have a right to feel safe and to be informed about decisions that could directly affect this.
Any changes in release dates must come with trauma-informed communication and risk management. With a probation service that is struggling with capacity, we are concerned that the “period of intense supervision in the community” will result in increased pressure, leading to mistakes and missed opportunities. Reports of significant workforce pressures raise serious questions about how effectively this will be delivered in practice.
The safety of survivors must remain paramount. We are pleased that the Victim’s Commissioner has written to the government to raise concerns regarding the implementation of this policy.
Letter to Minister Timpson on the implementation of the Sentencing Act 2026 – Victims Commissioner
Addressing prison overcrowding cannot come at the expense of survivor safety. Survivors of domestic abuse, other forms of sexual violence and loved ones of domestic homicide victims will still be concerned by the early release of their perpetrators.
Anyone experiencing violence against women, domestic abuse or sexual violence, or abuse, or those concerned about somebody at risk – support is available to you now.
Live Fear Free is a confidential and independent helpline that can provide advice and support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call 0808 80 10 800, text 07860077333 or email [email protected].
You can also access the Live Fear Free Helpline online chat by heading to: Contact Live Fear Free | GOV.WALES