Domestic abuse survivor charity Refuge has criticised the government’s review of the early prison release scheme, raising concerns about risk of harm to survivors if perpetrators of domestic abuse are released as part of the scheme.
Prime Minster Andy Burnham is currently reviewing the previous government’s efforts to manage prison overcrowding and capacity under the Sentencing Act 2026 which brought forward the opportunity for early release for many prison sentences.
Following Burnham’s review, prisoners convicted of rape, grooming and serious child sex offences will be excluded from the scheme. But Refuge says the decision to not exclude domestic abuse perpetrators potentially places survivors at risk.
Alice Russell-Harris, public affairs lead at Refuge, said: “Refuge has previously warned that the early release scheme will put many domestic abuse survivors at risk. We are deeply alarmed that, following its review, the government has decided not to exclude domestic abuse perpetrators. Failing to create this exemption will heighten survivors’ fears for their safety.
“The new prime minister took on the mission to halve violence against women and girls, yet this decision risks undermining that commitment by sending the message that domestic abuse is not being treated with the seriousness it deserves.
“Sadly, we are all too familiar with the harm caused when the criminal justice system fails to recognise the danger abusers pose to survivors. Domestic abuse is a pattern of coercion and control that is often perpetrated over many years. Although perpetrators may be released with licence conditions, including avoiding contact with survivors, they frequently breach conditions to continue their campaign of abuse, and we have concerns about the probation service’s ability to adequately monitor perpetrators.
“While we recognise the need to ease pressure on prison estates, this should never be prioritised at the expense of survivors’ safety. Refuge supports the domestic abuse commissioner in calling for robust safeguarding measures, risk assessments and urgent improvements to the probation service before these releases begin in October. Without these protections, the risk of harm to survivors will increase, signalling a criminal justice system that is failing to prioritise their needs and safety.
“We know that many survivors will be worried about the impact of early release on their safety and that of their loved ones. We want anyone affected, or who might have concerns, to know that help is available.”
