Further Statement on the Emergency Early Release of Prisoners

We have released a further statement in response to the Emergency Early Release of Prisoners.

Kate Wallace, Chief Executive of Victim Support Scotland said:

“Victim Support Scotland is deeply concerned about the Emergency Early Release of prisoners, following evidence given to the Criminal Justice Committee today.

“Given the lack of time for appropriate planning, our fear is that these measures will create trauma, anxiety and essentially more victims.

“As criteria are being finalised, we note this includes those on a four-year sentence (previously it was two) which will include serious offences in Scotland, including serious violent crime.

“Victims are still feeling the impact of when prisoners released on an emergency basis during COVID, which resulted in numerous drug deaths and a 40% reoffending rate within the first six-months.

“Victim Support Scotland welcomes measures to out services in place for released prisoners and is working collaboratively with the Scottish Government to minimise the negative impact on victims, and to maximise all available support and information.

“We fear this short-term measure will soon be repeated and simply displace the problem to the community and further stretch resources designed to keep victims safe.”

“VSS is further concerned that the process being put in place at the moment is putting the onus on victims to come forward.

“Anyone looking for information can contact Victim Support Scotland on 0800 160 1985 or on victimsupport.scot”