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Understanding the Sentencing Act 2026 changes and accessing support

The Government is introducing changes to prison release arrangements through the Sentencing Act 2026. These changes are intended to help ensure there is enough space in prisons, while making sure there is tough supervision of offenders when they are released to keep victims and the wider public safe.

The Sentencing Act 2026 makes changes to the amount of time some offenders 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 called a ‘Progression Model’. Protecting victims remains a priority. All offenders released through the Progression Model 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 (opens in new window).

More infomation about the Progression Model, what is changing, how victims can be informed and what support is available can be found at: A guide for victims about the changes to prison release arrangements – GOV.UK (opens in new window)

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, and help to access other services for people affected by, or worried about, the release of an offender.

The Helpline is there to:

  • Listen to victims and survivors’ concerns and offer emotional support
  • Discuss wellbeing, safety and possible next steps
  • Provide practical guidance and help callers understand what the changes may mean
  • Explain how someone may be able to seek further information, the Helpline cannot provide information about individual offenders or case specific release dates.
  • Help people access ongoing or specialist support where appropriate

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.

Support in West Mercia

Individuals affected by the Progression Model, leading to early prison releases who require emotional or practical support can self-refer to the Victim Support Gateway via telephone 01905 726 896 or email VictimSupportGateway@victimsupport.org.uk (opens email application). The service is open from 8am-8pm.

Support can also be accessed through referrals from the national Victim Support Helpline on 0808 16 89 111 who can provide initial advice and then will refer to the West Mercia Victim Support Gateway for local support.

The Victims' Champion will undertake a need assessment, organise practical safety measures including target hardening and supporting applications for protective orders.