Offenders released from prison in England and Wales from 1 October 2026 face new licence powers, the Ministry of Justice announced.
Restriction zones
The highest-risk sexual and violent offenders can be confined to restriction zones, in many cases just a few miles wide, to keep them away from victims. Offenders can also be banned from pubs, clubs, football matches and public events.
Tagging
There is now a presumption that offenders will be electronically tagged on release, and new technology will give probation near-live access to tagging data. A national helpline for victims is also being set up.
Scotland
Justice is devolved, so these rules do not apply to Scotland, which has its own system for release and supervision.
