Wiltshire residents reassured as support for victims strengthened following prisoner release changes

Office of the Police & Crime Commissioner

Wiltshire residents reassured as support for victims strengthened following prisoner release changes

Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson is reassuring residents that established multi agency arrangements continue to support the management and supervision of released offenders, while highlighting additional support available for victims across Wiltshire.

Recognising the impact that news of an offender's release can have, the OPCC has secured additional Ministry of Justice funding to strengthen local victim support services, including the recruitment of a dedicated Victim Advocate within Horizon Victim and Witness Care Service. A dedicated information page has also been launched to help victims understand the changes, access support and find reassurance.

While some offenders may now be released earlier than under previous arrangements, they will continue to serve the remainder of their sentence in the community under licence and supervision.