Sentencing Act 2026 - Accessing Support
If you have been affected by these changes or are worried about the release of offenders, local services are available to support you. Find out how to access support below.
Victim Support’s dedicated Offender Release Helpline provides information, emotional and practical support, and help to access other services for people affected by, or worried about, the release of an offender.
The Helpline is there to:
- Listen to victims and survivors’ concerns and offer emotional support
- Discuss wellbeing, safety and possible next steps
- Provide practical guidance and help callers understand what the changes may mean
- Explain how someone may be able to seek further information, the Helpline cannot provide information about individual offenders or case specific release dates.
- Help people access ongoing or specialist support where appropriate
You can contact the Helpline on 0808 168 9280.
Further information about the Helpline and the support available can be found at https://victimsupport.org.uk/offender-release-helpline.
HelplineSentencing Act 2026 - Specialist Support available in South Wales
With support from funding by the Ministry of Justice, the South Wales Police and Crime Commissioner has commissioned a single point of contact locally across South Wales, in the form of a Multi-Crime Early Release Scheme (ERS) Victims’ Champion.
Our specialist Victims’ Champion will work alongside victim and survivors affected by changes early release scheme, helping them to feel safe, informed and supported.
The Multi-Crime Early Release Victims Champion will provide:
- Advocacy and liaison with police, probation, courts and other agencies to help gather information and ensure your voice is heard.
- Individual needs assessments to identify support requirements and develop appropriate safety and support plans.
- Practical support and signposting, including assistance with housing issues, education concerns, and protective orders.
- Coordination with support services and partner agencies to ensure you receive joined-up support and access to the help available locally.
To access support from the Multi-Crime Early Release Champion, you can contact South Wales Victim Focus on 0300 303 0161.
Alternatively, you can self-refer via the website Victim/Witness Referral – South Wales Victim Focus
SupportVictims Directory
This page provides information and support for victims and witnesses following a crime.
Victims DirectoryNew Pathways
Merthyr Tydfil/WalesSpecialist support service for adults and children affected by rape, sexual abuse and sexual assault. They offer a full range of free specialist crisis, advocacy, wellbeing and counselling services.
NSPCC
UK's leading children's charity, preventing abuse and helping those affected to recover.
Platfform
Swansea/United KingdomFor mental health and social change.
We work with people who are experiencing challenges with their mental health, and with communities who want to create a greater sense of connection, ownership and wellbeing in the places that they live.
Race Alliance Wales
Race Alliance Wales (RAW) is an initiative which aims to act as a collaborative and self-directed platform for individuals and organisations interested in achieving race equality in Wales. Through collaborative work, we seek to contribute to a more equal, cohesive and globally responsible Wales, and to making Wales a welcoming place of safety where rights are enjoyed and racialised people can thrive.
Race Council Cymru
Swansea/United KingdomThe Race Council Cymru (RCC) is the overarching umbrella body established by ethnic minority grassroots communities in Wales to bring key organisations together to combat racial prejudice, race discrimination, harassment, victimisation, abuse and violence
Race Equality First
Cardiff/United KingdomThe Organisation was established to work towards the principal of equality and creating a fair and just society. We offer a range of services dedicated to helping you.
Rape Crisis England and Wales
A free phone and online chat service for anyone aged 16+ in England and Wales who has been affected by rape, child sexual abuse, sexual assault, sexual harassment or any other form of sexual violence.
RCT Domestic Abuse Services
Aberdare,Domestic abuse support for those in the Rhondda Cynon Taf area
Refuge
Refuge provides specialist support to women, children and some men escaping domestic violence and other forms of violence.
Safer Merthyr Tydfil
Support for those in the Merthyr Tydfil area
Safer Wales
Cardiff/WalesIndependent charity whose mission is to support, protect and empower groups of people who are often invisible in society
Salvation Army
Cardiff/United KingdomThe Salvation Army is a worldwide Christian church and registered charity, which has been fighting against social inequality and transforming lives for over 150 years.
Please note these organisations are distinct from emergency services, they provide specialised assistance and resources for various needs, offering additional avenues of support beyond immediate response.
In emergencies, call 999.
For non-emergencies, dial 101.