The Northern Ireland Prison Service runs the Prison Release Victim Information Scheme (PRVIS) which offers victims the opportunity to give and receive information about the prisoners who have been convicted of a crime against them.
It is a statutory scheme, introduced in July 2003, and is a voluntary 'opt in' scheme which means that if the victim does not register they will not receive any information. The victim, or close family or friends, carers or guardians, can receive information relating to periods of temporary release being considered and the prisoner's final discharge date.
The prisoner must have been sentenced to six months or more and who have been sentenced or permanently transferred to serve their sentence in Northern Ireland.
Victims can register to join the scheme by completing the application form forwarded to them by the police or they can contact the Victims Unit on 0845 247 0002. They can also apply online following the link below.
Of those registering with the scheme, the main reason is to receive early warning of a prisoner’s return to the community. For many victims the greatest fear is unexpected contact with an offender.
As prisoners approach the end of their sentence, they can be considered for periods of Temporary Release (TR) to help them prepare for their return to the community. Victims who have registered with the Prison Release Victim Information Scheme will be invited to make their views known, which will be taken into account when deciding on whether TR will be granted and if any conditions should be imposed on the prisoner whilst on release.
A prisoner can make an application for compassionate temporary release at anytime. If a victim has made representations, their views will be taken into account.
Please be aware that many victims mistakenly believe that someone will inform them of a prisoner’s release. This is not the case.
To be informed of a prisoner's release you must register with the scheme. Only one in five eligible victims have registered with PRVIS to date. If you would like further information, please contact the Prison Release Victim Information Scheme Unit on 0845 247 0002 or apply online by visiting thier website.
Crime, justice and the law