£195,000 fund announced to support victims after early prisoner releases
The funding will support a new Victims’ Champion role in Kent, safety equipment and access to specialist help
A £195,000 fund is being used to support victims in Kent who are affected by the early release of prisoners.
Kent Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Scott has revealed plans for the money, which has been allocated through national funding for victim support.
The funding follows the introduction of the Sentencing Act 2026 on 2nd September.
The Ministry of Justice has allocated £18.9 million nationally through PCC Surge Uplift Funding.
The act means some prisoners are released early into the community under intensive supervision, as part of efforts to ease pressure on overcrowded prisons.
Matthew Scott said: “Prisoners being re-released back into local communities places an enormous strain on services, particularly those in place to help victims who may be feeling anxious and uneasy over the move and what it could mean for them.
“While I’d rather offenders served their set sentences in prison, I am pleased that the MoJ has awarded this money so we can continue supporting victims.
“Part of our plans include the creation of an Early Offender Release Victims’ Champion Scheme.
“This individual will provide dedicated and visible support for those affected. My office and I will keep striving to commission these vital services to ensure the help is there and is accessible.”
How the funding will be used
The money will support the creation of an Early Offender Release Victims’ Champion role.
The role will take referrals and hold a caseload of victim-survivors, offering advocacy, information, emotional support and practical help.
It will also involve working with criminal justice partners.
The Victims’ Champion will sit within the Kent Victims Advocacy and Support Service, which is delivered by Victim Support.
The role will work with people affected to help them feel safe, informed and supported.
The funding will also support updated messaging and safety equipment for victims, based on need and risk.
That could include window alarms, door alarms and access to security apps for people assessed as being at risk.
Training will also be offered to local service providers where needed.
Matthew Scott said: “This point of contact will prove invaluable to the public. I am pleased we have been able to offer such a service which gives some reassurance during what can be an unsettling time for victims.”
How to access support
The Victims’ Champion will work with agencies including police, probation, courts and other criminal justice teams.
The role will help make sure victim-survivors are informed, assessed and supported through safety and support planning.
People affected, and professionals working with people affected, can access the Victims’ Champion through the national Offender Release Helpline.
The helpline number is 0808 168 9280.
Queries can also be raised by emailing [email protected] .
Referrals for support must be made through the national helpline and will not be accepted through the email address.
Children and young people affected by offender release can also access age-appropriate support through the helpline.