We are concerned and disappointed that perpetrators of domestic abuse will not be excluded from the Government’s revised early release scheme.

For many victims and survivors of domestic abuse, the release of a perpetrator brings fear, anxiety and uncertainty. We are supporting survivors who are already living with fear about when their perpetrator will be released. The knowledge that an abuser could be released earlier than expected will have an immediate impact on their sense of safety and their ability to rebuild their lives.

Domestic abuse is not a single incident. It is often a pattern of coercion, control, intimidation and abuse that can continue for years. Prison may restrict a perpetrator’s ability to contact or reach a survivor, but their release can create new opportunities to resume that behaviour.

Even when a perpetrator is released on licence this, does not, by itself, remove the risk. Licence conditions and restrictions can provide important safeguards, but survivors tell us how frightening it can be to know that someone who has harmed them is once again living in the community.

We recognise the pressure on the prison system and the need for a sustainable approach to prison capacity. But decisions about early release should not be made without fully understanding the risks to survivors and their families.

The Government has rightly recognised that some serious sexual offences should be excluded from early release. We believe that domestic abuse must be given the same seriousness.

Crucially, every survivor who may be affected by a perpetrator’s release should be offered access to specialist domestic abuse support. Notification systems are important, but they do not reach every survivor, and survivors should not have to navigate these systems alone at a time when they may be frightened about what happens next.

We know from our work with survivors that safety is not simply about preventing an incident. It is about enabling someone to feel safe enough to rebuild their life, make decisions about their future and live without fear.

We are here for anyone who is worried about the release of a perpetrator or concerned about their safety. Noone should have to face that fear alone.

If you are concerned about prisoner release and the possibility that an abuser may target you, or someone you know, here are some steps you could take: 

• Contact a local domestic abuse support service, such as IDAS. 
• You may be able to obtain information about a prisoner's release through the Probation Service. Victims of sexual and violent crimes may be eligible for notification of a prisoner’s release. 
• Review all communication channels the perpetrator could use to contact or locate you, including social media. Be cautious, as shared images can reveal your location.  
• Consider potential risks and steps to mitigate them. You may want to improve home security, inform neighbours or friends to create a support network, and plan where to go in your home if the perpetrator gains access. Keep a spare phone or emergency alert system in an easily accessible place.  
• It may also be helpful to inform your workplace, childcare provider, or school of your concerns. 
• Released prisoners are on license and monitored by probation. If you’re concerned about an ex-prisoner’s behaviour, contact your local probation service.  
• Additionally, consider if any protective orders might assist you. 

We remain committed to working with our partners to protect victims and offer support to those worried about an abuser’s release.