Hello

The Government’s decision this week to exclude those convicted of rape, serious child sex offences and grooming from the prisoner early-release scheme, is welcome news but this climbdown should never have been necessary - victims deserve better than this.

In recent months, I have heard directly from victims across Sussex who were distressed and anxious after learning how the scheme could affect offenders in their cases. For some, it re-opened traumatic memories and for others, it raised concerns about offenders being released sooner than expected and they questioned why they had put themselves through the anguish of a court case in the first place.

Victims deserve to be heard when decisions about sentencing and release are being considered. Whilst I welcome the Government’s renewed commitment to strengthen support for victims, improve communication and give victims a greater say in licence conditions, these measures must be backed by effective delivery.

I also recognise the pressures facing our prison estate but public protection and victims’ confidence in the justice system must remain at the heart of any reform. In Sussex, I remain committed to ensuring victims can access the support they need and that their voices continue to be heard.

You can read my full statement about the Government's announcement on changes to the early-release scheme on my website.

"I felt supported and listened to by the police"

Recently, I received a heartfelt message from a victim of domestic abuse praising Sussex Police for the support she received after reporting an assault. Her words were a powerful reminder of the difference that compassionate, professional policing can make during some of the most difficult moments in a person's life.

The woman, who wishes to remain anonymous, reported her former partner after a violent incident in November 2025. Her assailant was subsequently handed an 18-month high-level community order, ordered to pay compensation and made subject to a ten-year restraining order preventing him from contacting his victim.

In statements published after the court case, she explained:

"From the initial phone call to the officers who attended to take my statement within a couple of hours of reporting him, I felt supported and listened to, something that I always worried would not happen."

She also spoke movingly about recognising that the cycle of abuse would not end unless she sought help and encouraged others in similar situations to reach out for support.

I know that reporting domestic abuse can be incredibly difficult. Many victims worry they won't be believed, they won't be supported or that coming forward will only make things worse. That is why it is so encouraging to hear feedback like this.

I would like to thank the police officers and staff involved in this case, particularly those who supported the victim through both the investigation and the court process. This case demonstrates the positive impact that victim-focused policing can have. Most importantly, it shows that when victims come forward, they will be listened to, supported and treated with respect.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, please remember that help is available. You do not have to face it alone. You can find out more about the support available for victims of crime on the Safe Space Sussex website.

Katy Bourne OBE
Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner