Leaving prison

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1. When someone can leave prison

When a prisoner is released depends on:

  • the length of their sentence
  • their behaviour in prison
  • any time spent on remand (waiting for their trial)

If the prisoner has a fixed term (determinate) sentence

A prisoner serving a determinate sentence is normally released automatically halfway through their sentence.

If their sentence is 12 months or more, they鈥檒l be released on probation.

A Parole Board is not involved.

When a Parole Board reviews a case

Prisoners can apply for parole if they have an extended sentence, or a fixed-term sentence for:

  • 4 years or more
  • a serious violent or sexual crime committed before 4 April 2005

If the prisoner has a non fixed term (indeterminate) or life sentence

The government will apply for parole on the prisoner鈥檚 behalf.

2. Temporary release from prison

A prisoner may be allowed to leave prison for short periods towards the end of their sentence - whatever its type or length.

However, the prison will not release someone if it thinks they鈥檙e a risk to the public or may commit more crime.

Resettlement day release

A resettlement day release lets a prisoner out during the day. This is so the prisoner can do things to help them prepare for release, such as:

  • attend a work placement or training course to help them find work once they鈥檙e released
  • attend school or college
  • maintain family ties

Resettlement overnight release

A resettlement overnight release lets a prisoner spend the night at the place they鈥檒l live at after they鈥檙e released.

Childcare resettlement licence

A childcare resettlement licence lets a prisoner spend time with their child. They can only apply for this if they鈥檒l be the primary carer of a child when they finish their prison sentence.

Special purpose licence

A special purpose licence lets a prisoner leave prison in exceptional circumstances. For example, to get essential medical treatment in a hospital.

3. Before someone leaves prison

All prisoners get help preparing for life when they leave prison. In the last 12 weeks of their sentence, they鈥檙e given advice and support on:

  • finding somewhere to live
  • getting a job
  • looking after money

Prisoners get additional support if they:

  • have abused substances (such as drugs or alcohol)
  • are sex workers
  • are the victim of domestic violence

Most prisoners spend the last few months of their sentence in a prison near where they plan to live.

4. Support when someone leaves prison

A person leaving prison may get the following financial support:

Prisons may also work with organisations in their local area, such as charities, to help prisoners prepare for their release. You can find out about these organisations in the prison information pages.

Useful websites

There are organisations that can provide support for people leaving prison, including: