Support for victims affected by temporary changes to prisoner release dates
01.10.26 - Merseyside
Support is available for all victims in Merseyside affected by temporary changes to automatic prisoner release dates coming into force nationally on 1 October, 2026.
The lengths of some prison sentences are temporarily changing following new national legislation being introduced by the government.
From October, some offenders serving the most common type of prison sentences can be released after a third of the time in custody, with the remaining period supervised in the community on licence.
Without urgent action at a national level to free up prison places, new offenders, including those who have committed serious crimes, cannot be sentenced putting the most vulnerable in our society at risk.
In addition to a long-term prison expansion programme, there will be more investment and a greater focus on rehabilitation to cut reoffending and reduce the harm caused to our communities in the first place.
We recognise the level of concern and anxiety individuals have around these changes, which is why we’re working with partners to ensure victims and survivors across the region understand what the changes mean for them, how they will be kept informed, additional safeguards available and how to access support.
New national helpline
The helpline will offer non-case specific information, emotional support and reassurance, practical guidance as well as signposting and referrals to relevant local services.
You can call 0808 168 9280 or visit the helpline's website.
It is intended to support victims, victims' family members, carers and supporters, witnesses and professionals.
It will not be able to provide individual prisoner release dates, offender specific information, case specific licence conditions, legal advice or emergency response or crisis intervention services.
The helpline is to complement rather than replace existing victim support services. Where appropriate callers will be referred or signposted to victim liaison officers, witness care units, probation services, police, local victim support services or other local and national support organisations.
Support for victims in Merseyside
Victim Care Merseyside is a support service funded by the Police and Crime Commissioner providing support services for all victims of crime in Merseyside.
They offer free, confidential and independent support to people affected by crime.
They support all victims, whether they report the crime to police or not.
Other specialist support services are available such as for victims of sexual violence and domestic abuse.
You can also access local support and guidance through Victim Care Merseyside any time online at www.VictimCareMerseyside.org or by calling 0808 175 3080 on weekdays between 8am and 6pm
You can get more information about the changes to the release of prisoners here.