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My name is Miriam Lake. As a little girl, I suffered over six years of horrific physical and mental abuse. I was beaten so badly I needed stitches in my face, suffered fractured and bruised ribs, was made to lick dog poo and lived with constant threats and fear. I also witnessed my mother being abused and we had to stay in a women’s refuge for our safety.

As an adult, I finally found the courage to fight for justice. My story has since been shared in national newspapers and on ITV News, and I now use my voice to raise awareness for other survivors.

My abuser initially received a suspended sentence. After the Attorney General referred the case to the Court of Appeal, his sentence was increased to four years in prison.

But after serving only around 19 months, he was released early.

I know first-hand how devastating early release can be for a survivor.

And today, 1 October 2026, this is happening to more victims. Around 700 offenders are being released early in the first wave of the new scheme, and domestic abuse perpetrators are not automatically excluded. More prisoners will be released under the scheme in the coming months.

Women’s Aid has warned about the fear this is causing survivors. Women and children who have fought to escape abuse are now facing the possibility of their perpetrators being released earlier than expected.

This is no longer just about what happened to me. This is happening right now.

I am calling on the Government to review early-release rules for domestic and serious child abusers and to put victims’ safety at the heart of release decisions.

Survivors have already suffered enough. They should not have to fight for justice only to feel that justice has been taken away again.

Please sign and help me stand up for victims and survivors.

https://womensaid.org.uk/statement-as-first-tranche-of-prisoners-released-today-under-the-early-release-scheme/

Miriam Lake