Short-term prisoner release

Information and support for victims

How to get information about the release date of a prisoner

If you're signed up to the Victim Notification Scheme

If you’re part of the Victim Notification Scheme, the Scottish Prison Service will contact you you if there is a change to the release date of a prisoner involved in your case. They will do this before they are released.

If you're not signed up to the Victim Notification Scheme

If you’re not signed up to the Victim Notification Scheme, you can still get information about a prisoner involved in your case. You can do this by contacting the Scottish Prison Service before 30 April 2025.

How to join the Victim Notification Scheme

If you want to join the Victim Notification Scheme, the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal website has information on eligibility, how the Victim Notification Scheme works and how to register.

The short-term prisoner will not be told you have registered for the Victim Notification Scheme.

Where you can get support

These organisations can also offer support:

• Victim Support Scotland
• Rape Crisis Scotland
• ASSIST
• Children First
• Scottish Women’s Aid

If you are over 12 years old, you are able to nominate a prescribed Victim Support Organisation to receive information at the same time as you, or on your behalf. These prescribed organisations are currently Victim Support Scotland, Rape Crisis Scotland, ASSIST, and Children First. However, other support organisations may also be able to assist you or provide referral to one of the prescribed organisations.