New data released by the government yesterday (24.04.25) reveals a dramatic rise in the number of people being recalled to prison. The figures show that recall has risen by 45% compared to the same quarter last year (October to December 2024). Whilst this figure is taken from the period that the early release scheme came into operation, it reflects a wider trend in the escalating rates of recall.
Just 12% of those who were recalled to prison during this period had committed a further offence. When people are released from prison they have licence conditions which can include specific curfew requirements, restrictions on drinking (monitored via electronic tag) and attendance at probation appointments. The majority of people (58%) were sent back to prison for breaching these conditions or failing to keep in touch with probation, as opposed to committing a further crime.
The data highlights how the failure to rehabilitate people whilst in prison and effectively support them on release is continuing to exacerbate the prison overcrowding crisis. This speaks to a whole system, including the probation service, that is under immense strain. Therefore steps to ease prison overcrowding are undermined by a system on its knees.
CEO of Nacro, Campbell Robb, said:
“The data lays bare the need for urgent reform of our criminal justice system. Unfortunately, we are now back to square one as prison capacity has now surpassed 98% – the same level that prompted the urgent introduction of the early release scheme back in September. A radical approach is long overdue. The upcoming Sentencing Review is a once in a generation opportunity for the government to take bold evidence-based action to reform the criminal justice system and invest in rehabilitative services. We all want to see a reduction in crime and safer communities – it’s time for decisive action.”
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