Temporary Release Enquiries

The manager of a prison from which an inmate has requested temporary release can request:

• a temporary release enquiry, or
• information concerning the release of the inmate, under section 35 of the Victims' Rights Act 2002.

Managers can only request that enquiries be made with victims when:

• there is a victim notification request (VNR) on the inmate's file, or
• the victim has formally requested information under section 11 of the Victims of Offences Act 1987.

Timeframe

The probation officer should reply to the manager within 10 working days, either

• with the result of the enquiry, or
• if having difficulty contacting the victim, advising the manager and/or requesting further direction.

Content of enquiry

Enquiries may be made to establish:

• the nature of the relationship between the inmate and the victim
• the effect that any temporary release may have on the victim
• the nature of any continuing contact, and
• any conditions concerning contact/non-contact with the victim that may be appropriate.

Visit to victim

The probation officer must physically visit addresses given so that they can advise the manager of how close the victim's address is to the site the inmate is proposing to visit on temporary release.

Guidelines

Persons dealing with victims should treat them with courtesy, compassion and respect for their personal dignity and privacy.