The Government is introducing changes to prison release arrangements through the Sentencing Act 2026.
Changes aim to make sure there is enough space in prisons – while making sure there is tough supervision for offenders when they are released. That’s to keep victims and the wider public safe.
The Sentencing Act 2026 makes changes to the amount of time some offenders will spend in prison before being released to serve the rest of their sentence on licence.
A new three-part model will be introduced for standard determinate sentences (SDS) called a Progression Model.
An SDS is a fixed-term prison sentence with a definite end date. The sentence is split between time served in custody and time supervised in the community on licence
Under the Progression Model, protecting victims remains a priority. All offenders will be subject to strict licence conditions and a period of intensive supervision.
The changes do not apply to more than 18,000 offenders. For a list of offences that this model does not apply to visit sentencing act offence exclusions
More information about the Progression Model, what is changing, how victims are informed and support available can be found at:
A guide for victims about the changes to prison release arrangements – GOV.UK
How to access support
If you have been affected by these changes – or are worried about the release of offenders – local services are available to support you. Find out how to access support, below.
Victim Support’s dedicated Offender Release Helpline provides information, emotional and practical support. It also offers help to access other services for people affected by, or worried about, the release of an offender.
The Helpline:
- Listens to victims and survivors’ concerns and offers emotional support;
- Discusses wellbeing, safety and possible next steps;
- Provides practical guidance and helps callers understand what the changes may mean;
- Explains how some-one may be able to seek further information;
- Helps people access ongoing or specialist support, where appropriate.
The Helpline cannot provide information about individual offenders or case specific release dates.
You can contact the Helpline on 0808 168 9280.
Further information about the Helpline and the support available can be found at https://victimsupport.org.uk/offender-release-helpline.
For local support, contact Cleveland’s victim services:
Victim Care and Advice Service (VCAS) – Cleveland Police and Crime Commissioner
Sexual violence and exploitation – Cleveland Police and Crime Commissioner
Domestic abuse – Cleveland Police and Crime Commissioner
Illegal Cultural Harm – Cleveland Police and Crime Commissioner