Prisoner early release scheme, the facts
The Government has introduced changes to prisoner release arrangements to help manage prison capacity, which begins on Thursday 1 October 2026.
Under these arrangements, some prisoners may be released earlier than they would previously have been and continue serving the remainder of their sentence in the community under licence and probation supervision.
Who may be released early?
Eligibility depends on the offence for which a person is serving a sentence and the sentence imposed by the court. Some offences are excluded from the scheme, including:
- some sexual offences
- terrorism offences
- certain domestic abuse-related offences
- some serious violent offences
Exclusions are based on the current offence for which a person is serving a sentence, not past history or behaviour.
This means a person may still be eligible for early release even if they have a history of domestic abuse, violence, stalking or other harmful behaviour, where they are serving a sentence for a different offence that falls within the eligibility criteria.
Further information about the scheme and eligibility criteria is available from: GOV.UK guidance on changes to automatic release dates.
If you have concerns
Many people released under these arrangements will continue to be managed in the community by the Probation Service and remain subject to licence conditions.
However, some victims, former partners, family members and other residents may have concerns about how an offender's release could affect them.
Not everyone affected by an offender's release will necessarily receive direct notification. If you are concerned that the release of a current or former partner, family member or other offender may impact your safety or wellbeing, support and advice are available.
Housing and safety support
If you are worried about your safety because of domestic abuse, coercive or controlling behaviour, stalking, harassment or fear of violence, Arun District Council may be able to help.
Support may include:
- advice on housing options
- homelessness prevention support
- sanctuary security measures, such as enhanced locks, door and window security, alarms and other safety improvements
- support to remain safely in your home where appropriate
- assistance accessing alternative accommodation if that is the safest option and referrals to specialist support services
Where to get advice or help
If you are worried that an offender's release may affect your safety, seek advice as early as possible. Support is available for safety planning, housing advice, security measures and access to specialist victim services.
Emergency: 999
Police (non-emergency): 101
WORTH Domestic and Sexual Abuse Services
West Sussex County Council
0330 222 8181
National Domestic Abuse Helpline
0808 2000 247 (24 hours)
victimsupport.org.uk
08 08 16 89 111 (24 hours)