End Friday Releases
People released from prison on a Friday face an almost impossible challenge to get the support they need before the weekend.
The day of release can be a race against the clock for people as they try to find somewhere to stay, get health support, apply for benefits and see their probation officer. For people released on a Friday this can feel like an impossible challenge: with services closing for the weekend, too many are left sleeping rough, without medication or enough money until Monday. Without the right support in place, we are simply setting people up to fail.
SUCCESS
In June 2023 The Offenders (Day of Release from Detention) Act passed into law and since the start of 2024 people are no longer released from prison on a Friday as a matter of course.
Thank you to everyone who helped make this happen!
Watch our video
1 in 3 people are released from prison on a Friday, find out about the unique difficulties of a Friday release.
What needs to happen?
The Government must legislate to end the practice of Friday prison releases for people with high resettlement needs.
What has happened?
On the 12th December 2023, the Offenders (Day of Release from Detention) Bill passed it’s second reading in the House of Commons, receiving cross party support. This bill will end Friday releases for the most vulnerable people.
More about our other campaigns
I was 18 when I was diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome. I began taking drugs and drinking alcohol, which made me feel more confident and able to speak to people. When I could not get alcohol I started stealing it from shops and was sent to prison.Read Carl’s story here
Legislation to allow the end of Friday releases for the most vulnerable is currently making its way through Parliament, sponsored by Simon Fell MP.
Video: Realities of release
Watch Nacro Resettlement Worker, Robert, describe the challenge of helping prisoners who are released on a Friday and the race against time to get vital services in place before the weekend.
Campaign News
One step closer to ending Friday releases
On Friday 2nd December, the Offenders (Day of Release from Detention) Bill passed its Second Reading in the House of Commons.
Supporting prisoners released during the holidays
We know through our work in prisons and our campaigning that being released from prison during the holidays or on Fridays can make the already complicated release process more difficult.
‘Cut crime, make streets safer’ Ending Friday Releases
Ministry of Justice announced plans to reduce Friday releases. Prisoners vulnerable to addiction, mental health issues or homelessness will no longer be released on Fridays under new plans to cut reoffending and make streets safer.