Refuge responds to the Sentencing Review

In response to today’s Sentencing Review, Ellie Butt, Head of Policy and Public Affairs at Refuge, said:

“Refuge remains steadfast in its stance that any initiatives to tackle prison overcrowding must not compromise the safety of domestic abuse survivors. We appreciate the need to alleviate pressure on the prison system, and while today’s Sentencing Review suggests a number of steps in the right direction, protections for survivors must be strengthened.

“Domestic abuse is a horrific crime and every effort must be taken to keep survivors safe. The risks perpetrators present to survivors should undoubtedly be counted as an ‘exceptional circumstance’ that can justify a short prison sentence, with the Review acknowledging that this is often the only option to safeguard survivors. A prison sentence is, of course, not a silver bullet in preventing re-offending upon release, meaning the measures set out in the Review to improve the Probation Service are vital.

“Plans to improve the identification of domestic abuse perpetrators are welcome, but it is crucial that agencies act on this information with enhanced supervision. Historically, we have seen probation officers miss opportunities to correctly assess and manage the risk of harm posed to survivors, which has resulted in devastating, and sometimes fatal consequences.

“Improved investment in the Probation Service is a positive step forward, but this will take time to make a difference. Domestic abuse perpetrators should not be allowed to avoid prison or be released early until probation performance has improved.

“Our conversations with survivors have made clear that when it comes to the prison crisis, the early release of perpetrators is one of the biggest sources of distress. Domestic abuse is a pattern of coercion and control that is often perpetrated over many years. While perpetrators may be released with licence conditions, including avoiding contact with survivors, they frequently breach conditions to continue their campaign of abuse. Increased tagging is welcome, but will only work alongside quality supervision from the Probation Service and quick responses when conditions are breached.

“While the outcomes of the measures proposed in the Sentencing Review are yet to be seen, what is clear is that the safety of survivors must be prioritised. Any future reforms to tackle prison overcrowding must be rigorously assessed to ensure they effectively safeguard survivors.”