We call on the Government to review early release rules so that victims of domestic abuse and their children are better protected.

Domestic abuse is not a crime that ends when a sentence is given. Many victims continue to live with fear, trauma and safety concerns long after conviction.

When sentences are reduced, victims can be left feeling that the protection they were promised has been taken away. A prison sentence is not just a punishment — for many victims it represents time to recover, rebuild and feel safe.

We believe cases involving domestic abuse, coercive control, violence, harassment and other serious offences should receive careful consideration before early release is granted.

The Government should ensure:

victims’ voices are properly considered
risk assessments are completed before release
children’s safety is prioritised
domestic abuse patterns and post-separation risks are recognised
Victims deserve a justice system that understands the ongoing impact of abuse and puts safety first.

Why this matters:

Survivors of domestic abuse often spend years rebuilding their lives after abuse. The possibility of an offender returning much sooner than expected can cause fear, anxiety and renewed trauma.

A system that protects victims must listen to those who have lived through it.