Support Available for Victims Following Changes to Prison Release Arrangements

With changes to prison release procedures introduced this month, victims and anyone concerned about the release of an offender are being reminded that dedicated support is available.

New arrangements came into effect from 1 October under the Sentencing Act 2026, meaning that some prisoners will be released earlier than expected - subject to strict licence conditions and a period of intensive supervision.

While the changes are designed to help address prison capacity pressures, protecting victims and the wider public remains a top priority.

For some victims, the prospect of an offender being released earlier than expected may cause anxiety or concern, which is why support is available to help people understand the changes, consider their options and access practical and emotional assistance.

Police and Crime Commissioner for Dorset, David Sidwick said: "I understand that for some victims and their families, news that an offender may be released earlier than expected can be worrying and unsettling. While these changes have been introduced by the Government, it is vital that victims know they are not facing those concerns alone.

“There is dedicated support available to help people understand what the changes mean, discuss any worries they may have and access practical and emotional assistance. I would encourage anyone affected to reach out for support and make use of the services available”.

Victim Support’s dedicated Offender Release Helpline provides information, emotional and practical support, and help to access other services for people affected by, or worried about, the release of an offender.

This service is for anyone affected by the changes, including victims, witnesses, family members, friends, carers and professionals.

You can call the Victim Support Offender Release Helpline on 0808 168 9280.

In terms of how the Sentencing Act 2026 will impact policing, its core role and priorities remain unchanged.

Police will:

• Continue to relentlessly pursue offenders, make arrests, investigate offences thoroughly, and bring offenders before the courts. Police powers and thresholds for remand remain the same.
• Continue to manage offenders in the community, respond quickly to breaches and officers will seek the use of protective and community orders, where appropriate.
• Carry out robust enforcement of protective and community orders, as well as effective partnership working with Probation and other agencies will be critical to making these changes work. Neighbourhood officers in particular will play an important role in monitoring offenders and proactively protecting communities.

For more information on the services and help available – please visit go online at  Early Release Scheme Support · Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner