Planning Your Next Steps

When an investigation ends or a trial is over, it can feel like you should instantly “get back to normal” — but for most people, life after the criminal justice system isn’t that straightforward. The process may be finished, but the emotional, financial, and practical effects often linger.

Planning your next steps is about taking back control. Whether you’ve received an NFA, been acquitted, or are supporting someone else through this stage, it’s about setting realistic goals, rebuilding stability, and creating a path forward at your own pace.

---

Give Yourself Time to Breathe

After months — or sometimes years — of uncertainty, it’s normal to feel lost when the process ends. You may have been living in constant survival mode, focused on getting through each day. Now, the sudden “quiet” can feel unsettling.

Take time to rest and reflect. It’s okay if you don’t have all the answers right away. Recovery isn’t a race, and giving yourself space to process what’s happened is a key part of moving forward.

---

Getting Practical Foundations in Place

Once you feel ready, focus on rebuilding the essentials:

• Finances — If your income was affected, you may be able to access debt advice, benefits support, or financial planning tools to stabilise your situation.
• Housing — Whether you’ve kept your home or need new accommodation, there are local authorities and charities that can help with housing advice.
• Employment — If your job was impacted, start by understanding your rights. Some people return to previous roles, while others explore new careers or training to make a fresh start.

These steps don’t need to happen all at once. Breaking them into manageable goals can make the process less overwhelming.

---

Rebuilding Your Wellbeing

The aftermath of legal challenges can leave lasting emotional strain, whether you’ve been accused, investigated, or simply supporting someone through it. Prioritising your mental and physical health is essential.

• Talk to trusted friends, family, or peer-support groups about what you’ve been through
• Explore counselling or therapy to process the stress and anxiety
• Look after your physical wellbeing with sleep, exercise, and balanced nutrition — even small steps make a difference

The CJS Hub’s Wellbeing Hub offers resources and links to services that can help you look after yourself while rebuilding.

---

Setting New Goals and Finding Purpose

Moving forward often means rediscovering what matters most to you. That might be rebuilding relationships, pursuing education or work, volunteering, or reconnecting with hobbies and passions.

For some, this process brings a renewed sense of strength and clarity about what’s important in life. Others take smaller, steady steps toward regaining stability — both approaches are valid.

---

You’re Not On Your Own

The criminal justice system can leave deep marks, but you don’t have to navigate the next chapter alone. The CJS Hub is here to connect you with guides, resources, and services to help you understand your options and regain confidence about the future.

Whether it’s practical advice or emotional support, there are ways forward — one step at a time.

Being accused of a crime — even if you’re later acquitted or receive a No Further Action (NFA) decision — changes things. For many people, the legal process ends long before the emotional fallout does. Trust can be shaken, relationships strained, and connections with colleagues, friends, or family may feel fragile.

Rebuilding those personal and professional ties takes time, patience, and understanding — both from you and from the people around you. It’s not always easy, but it is possible.

---

Starting with Yourself

Before you can rebuild relationships with others, it often helps to focus on yourself first. The stress of an accusation and investigation can leave you drained, anxious, or even resentful. Taking time to process your own feelings — whether that’s through counselling, peer support, or just having space to breathe — can make you better prepared to reconnect with others in a healthy way.

---

Reconnecting with Family and Friends

Family and close friends often go through their own emotional journey during an accusation. Some may have stood firmly by you; others may have stepped back, unsure how to cope or what to believe. Both reactions are common, and healing those divides takes honesty and patience.

Start small — open conversations about how you’ve been affected, listen to their perspective, and acknowledge any hurt or confusion they may have experienced too. Some relationships bounce back quickly; others may take longer, and that’s okay.

Peer support groups, such as those connected through the CJS Hub, can also be valuable spaces to talk to people who’ve faced similar challenges and understand the emotional weight involved.

---

Rebuilding Professional Relationships

Allegations can also impact your work life, even if you’re fully cleared. Employers and colleagues may have heard rumours or been directly affected during the investigation. Returning to work — or finding new employment — can feel daunting, but there are practical steps you can take:

• If your case resulted in an NFA or acquittal, request written confirmation from the police or your solicitor. This can reassure employers where needed.
• Be selective about what you share — you don’t need to relive every detail to explain your situation.
• If you were dismissed or suspended, consider asking for advice on your employment rights.

Rebuilding your professional reputation takes time, but focusing on your skills, reliability, and work ethic is often the strongest way to change perceptions.

---

When Relationships Don’t Recover

It’s painful, but some connections may not survive. False allegations and prolonged investigations can create divides that are too deep to fully repair. That doesn’t mean you’ve failed — it means some people weren’t able or willing to work through it with you.

In those cases, putting energy into building new healthy relationships, joining supportive communities, and focusing on your own recovery can be a powerful way to move forward.

---

An acquittal or NFA decision can lift the weight of the legal process, but rebuilding your life and relationships often takes time. Be patient with yourself, patient with others, and seek out spaces where you feel safe, supported, and understood.

The CJS Hub is here to provide resources, guides, and peer connections to help you navigate this journey — for both you and the people around you.

Understand the differences between bail, police bail, and Release Under Investigation (RUI).

Police Bail (Pre‑Charge Bail)

Also known as pre-charge bail, this is used when the police have arrested someone but aren’t ready to charge them yet. Instead of keeping you in custody, they release you with requirements, such as returning to the station or sticking to certain conditions.

Under PACE and updated by the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022, these bail periods can now last up to nine months—initially up to three months, then extendable twice by three months each. If more time is needed after nine months, the police must go to court for approval.

Conditions might include:
- Reporting regularly to a police station
- Staying away from certain individuals or locations
- Not interfering with evidence or witnesses.

If you fail to comply with the conditions, it’s not automatically a criminal offence—but you can be re-arrested and potentially denied bail in future.

---

Release Under Investigation (RUI)

Released Under Investigation, or RUI, means you’re allowed to go home without any conditions and without a set date to return. The police may still be investigating, but there’s no formal timeline.

This became more common after 2017 reforms that limited the use of bail, although those changes caused frustration because:

• There’s no time limit or oversight on how long it lasts.
• There are no conditions, so nothing stops you from contacting people involved—though you should seek advice before doing so.
• It leaves both the suspect and the alleged victim in limbo, sometimes for months or even longer.

The Police Crime Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 aimed to correct this by encouraging more use of bail (when necessary and proportionate), to provide more oversight and structure.

---

Post-Charge Bail (Court Bail)

Once you’ve been formally charged, you can be released on bail by the court. This might be for your first hearing or while awaiting trial. Conditions can still apply, and you must appear in court on the set date.

---

Summary Table

Situation	What It Means	Timeframe & Conditions
Police Bail (Pre-Charge)	Released from custody but with conditions	Up to 9 months, conditions applied. After 9 Month to extend police must apply to the courts
Release Under Investigation (RUI)	Released without conditions or time limits	No time limits, no conditions; can feel indefinite
Charged/Bailed To Court	Released after charge and given a date to attend court. This can be with or without bail conditions.	To attend court on the date the custody officer tells you at point of release.

---

Final Thoughts

• Police Bail gives structure and oversight, particularly useful when conditions are necessary.
• RUI avoids restrictions—but can leave you stuck without answers or guidance.
• Charged/Bailed To Court – ensures you avoid unnecessary custody while waiting for your hearing.

If you’re unsure what your status means, or what to do next, getting legal advice early is always a wise move.

What to Expect

For most people leaving prison, the sentence doesn’t end at the gate. Being released doesn’t mean you’re free to do whatever you like — you’ll almost always leave on licence. That means you’re allowed back into the community, but you’re still serving your sentence under specific rules and supervision. Understanding how your licence works, what probation expects, and where the risks lie is the key to staying on track and rebuilding your life.

What It Means to Be on Licence

When you’re released from custody, the rest of your sentence is served in the community under supervision. You’re free from the day-to-day restrictions of prison, but you’re not fully finished with the criminal justice system until your licence period ends. For most determinate sentences, this lasts until the original end date of your sentence. For life sentences and IPP sentences, licence conditions can last for many years — sometimes for life — though there are ways to apply for early termination in certain situations.

Your licence conditions are set by the Probation Service and approved by the Prison Governor before release. They’re designed to manage risk and support your reintegration. Some are standard, while others are tailored to your offence, your background, and the assessment of your risk.

Common Licence Conditions

While the exact rules vary from case to case, most people can expect conditions like:

• Living at an approved address and informing probation of any changes
• Attending regular meetings with your probation officer
• Staying away from certain people, places, or areas if they’re linked to your offence
• Not committing further offences or doing anything that raises risk concerns
• Allowing probation to visit you at home
• Seeking permission before travelling outside England & Wales

For some, especially those convicted of sexual or violent offences, there can be additional restrictions — like not contacting certain people, using the internet in specific ways, or attending treatment programmes. These will be explained in writing before you leave prison, and it’s crucial to make sure you fully understand them before signing anything.

Working with Probation

Probation’s role is to monitor risk, but also to support your resettlement. Some officers are brilliant, others less so — but either way, staying cooperative makes life easier. Missing appointments, ignoring instructions, or being dishonest will almost always cause problems. If you’re struggling with a condition — for example, finding suitable housing, meeting travel restrictions, or attending courses — speak to your probation officer as early as possible. They may be able to adjust things or refer you to other services for support.

The Risk of Recall

One of the hardest parts of being on licence is knowing that you can be recalled to prison. Recall can happen for two reasons: either you’ve been accused of breaching your licence conditions, or probation believes your risk has increased and you can’t be managed safely in the community.

Recalls aren’t always permanent. In some cases, you might be returned to custody for a fixed period before being released again, but for more serious breaches, you could stay inside until your original sentence expiry date. If you think a recall is unfair, there are routes to challenge it — but time limits are short, and it’s always better to avoid breaching in the first place if you can.

Balancing Freedom and Responsibility

Life on licence can feel restrictive at times, but it’s also a second chance — an opportunity to start rebuilding your life outside prison walls. Securing stable housing, rebuilding relationships, looking after your mental health, and accessing support for work, education, or training can all make a huge difference.

It’s normal to feel frustrated with the process, especially if conditions feel unfair or overly strict, but engaging with support services and sticking to the rules reduces the risk of recall and gets you closer to the finish line. For families and supporters, understanding how licence works helps you provide the right kind of encouragement without unintentionally making things harder.

Understand the differences between bail, police bail, and Release Under Investigation (RUI).

Police Bail (Pre‑Charge Bail)

Also known as pre-charge bail, this is used when the police have arrested someone but aren’t ready to charge them yet. Instead of keeping you in custody, they release you with requirements, such as returning to the station or sticking to certain conditions.

Under PACE and updated by the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022, these bail periods can now last up to nine months—initially up to three months, then extendable twice by three months each. If more time is needed after nine months, the police must go to court for approval.

Conditions might include:
- Reporting regularly to a police station
- Staying away from certain individuals or locations
- Not interfering with evidence or witnesses.

If you fail to comply with the conditions, it’s not automatically a criminal offence—but you can be re-arrested and potentially denied bail in future.

---

Release Under Investigation (RUI)

Released Under Investigation, or RUI, means you’re allowed to go home without any conditions and without a set date to return. The police may still be investigating, but there’s no formal timeline.

This became more common after 2017 reforms that limited the use of bail, although those changes caused frustration because:

• There’s no time limit or oversight on how long it lasts.
• There are no conditions, so nothing stops you from contacting people involved—though you should seek advice before doing so.
• It leaves both the suspect and the alleged victim in limbo, sometimes for months or even longer.

The Police Crime Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 aimed to correct this by encouraging more use of bail (when necessary and proportionate), to provide more oversight and structure.

---

Post-Charge Bail (Court Bail)

Once you’ve been formally charged, you can be released on bail by the court. This might be for your first hearing or while awaiting trial. Conditions can still apply, and you must appear in court on the set date.

---

Summary Table

Situation	What It Means	Timeframe & Conditions
Police Bail (Pre-Charge)	Released from custody but with conditions	Up to 9 months, conditions applied. After 9 Month to extend police must apply to the courts
Release Under Investigation (RUI)	Released without conditions or time limits	No time limits, no conditions; can feel indefinite
Charged/Bailed To Court	Released after charge and given a date to attend court. This can be with or without bail conditions.	To attend court on the date the custody officer tells you at point of release.

---

Final Thoughts

• Police Bail gives structure and oversight, particularly useful when conditions are necessary.
• RUI avoids restrictions—but can leave you stuck without answers or guidance.
• Charged/Bailed To Court – ensures you avoid unnecessary custody while waiting for your hearing.

If you’re unsure what your status means, or what to do next, getting legal advice early is always a wise move.

Planning Your Next Steps

When an investigation ends or a trial is over, it can feel like you should instantly “get back to normal” — but for most people, life after the criminal justice system isn’t that straightforward. The process may be finished, but the emotional, financial, and practical effects often linger.

Planning your next steps is about taking back control. Whether you’ve received an NFA, been acquitted, or are supporting someone else through this stage, it’s about setting realistic goals, rebuilding stability, and creating a path forward at your own pace.

---

Give Yourself Time to Breathe

After months — or sometimes years — of uncertainty, it’s normal to feel lost when the process ends. You may have been living in constant survival mode, focused on getting through each day. Now, the sudden “quiet” can feel unsettling.

Take time to rest and reflect. It’s okay if you don’t have all the answers right away. Recovery isn’t a race, and giving yourself space to process what’s happened is a key part of moving forward.

---

Getting Practical Foundations in Place

Once you feel ready, focus on rebuilding the essentials:

• Finances — If your income was affected, you may be able to access debt advice, benefits support, or financial planning tools to stabilise your situation.
• Housing — Whether you’ve kept your home or need new accommodation, there are local authorities and charities that can help with housing advice.
• Employment — If your job was impacted, start by understanding your rights. Some people return to previous roles, while others explore new careers or training to make a fresh start.

These steps don’t need to happen all at once. Breaking them into manageable goals can make the process less overwhelming.

---

Rebuilding Your Wellbeing

The aftermath of legal challenges can leave lasting emotional strain, whether you’ve been accused, investigated, or simply supporting someone through it. Prioritising your mental and physical health is essential.

• Talk to trusted friends, family, or peer-support groups about what you’ve been through
• Explore counselling or therapy to process the stress and anxiety
• Look after your physical wellbeing with sleep, exercise, and balanced nutrition — even small steps make a difference

The CJS Hub’s Wellbeing Hub offers resources and links to services that can help you look after yourself while rebuilding.

---

Setting New Goals and Finding Purpose

Moving forward often means rediscovering what matters most to you. That might be rebuilding relationships, pursuing education or work, volunteering, or reconnecting with hobbies and passions.

For some, this process brings a renewed sense of strength and clarity about what’s important in life. Others take smaller, steady steps toward regaining stability — both approaches are valid.

---

You’re Not On Your Own

The criminal justice system can leave deep marks, but you don’t have to navigate the next chapter alone. The CJS Hub is here to connect you with guides, resources, and services to help you understand your options and regain confidence about the future.

Whether it’s practical advice or emotional support, there are ways forward — one step at a time.

Being accused of a crime — even if you’re later acquitted or receive a No Further Action (NFA) decision — changes things. For many people, the legal process ends long before the emotional fallout does. Trust can be shaken, relationships strained, and connections with colleagues, friends, or family may feel fragile.

Rebuilding those personal and professional ties takes time, patience, and understanding — both from you and from the people around you. It’s not always easy, but it is possible.

---

Starting with Yourself

Before you can rebuild relationships with others, it often helps to focus on yourself first. The stress of an accusation and investigation can leave you drained, anxious, or even resentful. Taking time to process your own feelings — whether that’s through counselling, peer support, or just having space to breathe — can make you better prepared to reconnect with others in a healthy way.

---

Reconnecting with Family and Friends

Family and close friends often go through their own emotional journey during an accusation. Some may have stood firmly by you; others may have stepped back, unsure how to cope or what to believe. Both reactions are common, and healing those divides takes honesty and patience.

Start small — open conversations about how you’ve been affected, listen to their perspective, and acknowledge any hurt or confusion they may have experienced too. Some relationships bounce back quickly; others may take longer, and that’s okay.

Peer support groups, such as those connected through the CJS Hub, can also be valuable spaces to talk to people who’ve faced similar challenges and understand the emotional weight involved.

---

Rebuilding Professional Relationships

Allegations can also impact your work life, even if you’re fully cleared. Employers and colleagues may have heard rumours or been directly affected during the investigation. Returning to work — or finding new employment — can feel daunting, but there are practical steps you can take:

• If your case resulted in an NFA or acquittal, request written confirmation from the police or your solicitor. This can reassure employers where needed.
• Be selective about what you share — you don’t need to relive every detail to explain your situation.
• If you were dismissed or suspended, consider asking for advice on your employment rights.

Rebuilding your professional reputation takes time, but focusing on your skills, reliability, and work ethic is often the strongest way to change perceptions.

---

When Relationships Don’t Recover

It’s painful, but some connections may not survive. False allegations and prolonged investigations can create divides that are too deep to fully repair. That doesn’t mean you’ve failed — it means some people weren’t able or willing to work through it with you.

In those cases, putting energy into building new healthy relationships, joining supportive communities, and focusing on your own recovery can be a powerful way to move forward.

---

An acquittal or NFA decision can lift the weight of the legal process, but rebuilding your life and relationships often takes time. Be patient with yourself, patient with others, and seek out spaces where you feel safe, supported, and understood.

The CJS Hub is here to provide resources, guides, and peer connections to help you navigate this journey — for both you and the people around you.

Understanding When People Are Released

One of the hardest parts of going through the criminal justice system — whether you’re serving time or supporting someone inside — is trying to understand when release might actually happen. There isn’t one simple answer, because different types of sentence have very different rules about when someone can leave custody. Knowing how the system works helps you plan, manage expectations, and focus on what you can control along the way.

Fixed-Term (Determinate) Sentences

Most people in prison are serving what’s called a determinate sentence. That simply means the court sets a fixed length, and your release date is calculated from that.

For determinate sentences under four years, the usual rule is that you serve half of the sentence in custody and the rest on licence in the community, under probation supervision. If you’re given four years, for example, you’ll normally spend around two inside, then be released automatically at the halfway point. You don’t need to apply — it’s automatic unless something unusual happens, like being recalled or facing new charges.

For sentences over four years, the process can be slightly different depending on the offence and the level of risk assessed by probation. Some prisoners are still released automatically at the halfway stage, but others may have to wait until they’ve served two-thirds before automatic release kicks in. In certain cases — especially for more serious offences — release at two-thirds is no longer automatic and instead depends on a review by the Parole Board.

Extended Determinate Sentences (EDS)

If someone has been deemed a higher risk to the public, they might be given an Extended Determinate Sentence. These combine a custodial period with an extended period of licence once released. The big difference here is that release is not automatic at halfway — you usually have to serve two-thirds of the custodial part before you’re even eligible to apply for release, and it’s the Parole Board that decides whether you can leave at that point. If they say no, you’ll stay inside until the end of the custodial term before moving onto licence.

Life Sentences

Life doesn’t always mean life — but it does mean the sentence lasts for the rest of the person’s life. When a court hands down a life sentence, it also sets a minimum term (sometimes called the “tariff”), which is the amount of time that must be served before the person can even be considered for release.

Once that minimum term has been served, the case goes to the Parole Board, who look at things like behaviour in custody, completed courses, risk assessments, and any evidence of rehabilitation. There’s no guarantee of release at the tariff point — some people spend many more years inside if the board isn’t satisfied that the risk can be managed in the community. Even after release, people on life sentences remain on licence for the rest of their lives and can be recalled at any time.

IPP Sentences (Imprisonment for Public Protection)

Although IPP sentences were scrapped in 2012, thousands of people are still serving them today. They’re one of the most complex and controversial parts of the system. With an IPP, the judge sets a minimum tariff, but after that, there’s no automatic release.

People on IPP stay in custody until the Parole Board is convinced that the risk can be safely managed in the community. Many people serve far beyond their tariffs, and even after release, the licence period lasts at least ten years before it can be considered for termination. If you or someone you’re supporting is serving an IPP, seeking specialist advice and gathering strong evidence of rehabilitation can make a huge difference.

Home Detention Curfew (HDC) and Early Release

For some people serving determinate sentences of between 12 weeks and four years, there’s a possibility of being released earlier than the halfway point under the Home Detention Curfew (HDC) scheme — often called “tagging.”

Eligibility depends on the sentence length, behaviour in custody, and whether there’s a safe address to go to. If approved, you could leave prison up to 135 days early, but you’ll have strict curfew conditions and electronic monitoring. Not everyone qualifies — violent, sexual, and high-risk cases are often excluded — but it’s worth applying if you meet the criteria.

Preparing for Release

Across all sentence types, your behaviour, engagement with rehabilitation, and willingness to prepare for life outside can affect release decisions — especially where the Parole Board is involved. Completing accredited courses, keeping out of trouble, working or studying inside, and showing progress in managing risk can all strengthen your position when the time comes.

If you’re supporting someone inside, helping them stay on top of sentence planning, encouraging engagement with probation, and being part of their resettlement plans can make a real difference.

What to Expect

For most people leaving prison, the sentence doesn’t end at the gate. Being released doesn’t mean you’re free to do whatever you like — you’ll almost always leave on licence. That means you’re allowed back into the community, but you’re still serving your sentence under specific rules and supervision. Understanding how your licence works, what probation expects, and where the risks lie is the key to staying on track and rebuilding your life.

What It Means to Be on Licence

When you’re released from custody, the rest of your sentence is served in the community under supervision. You’re free from the day-to-day restrictions of prison, but you’re not fully finished with the criminal justice system until your licence period ends. For most determinate sentences, this lasts until the original end date of your sentence. For life sentences and IPP sentences, licence conditions can last for many years — sometimes for life — though there are ways to apply for early termination in certain situations.

Your licence conditions are set by the Probation Service and approved by the Prison Governor before release. They’re designed to manage risk and support your reintegration. Some are standard, while others are tailored to your offence, your background, and the assessment of your risk.

Common Licence Conditions

While the exact rules vary from case to case, most people can expect conditions like:

• Living at an approved address and informing probation of any changes
• Attending regular meetings with your probation officer
• Staying away from certain people, places, or areas if they’re linked to your offence
• Not committing further offences or doing anything that raises risk concerns
• Allowing probation to visit you at home
• Seeking permission before travelling outside England & Wales

For some, especially those convicted of sexual or violent offences, there can be additional restrictions — like not contacting certain people, using the internet in specific ways, or attending treatment programmes. These will be explained in writing before you leave prison, and it’s crucial to make sure you fully understand them before signing anything.

Working with Probation

Probation’s role is to monitor risk, but also to support your resettlement. Some officers are brilliant, others less so — but either way, staying cooperative makes life easier. Missing appointments, ignoring instructions, or being dishonest will almost always cause problems. If you’re struggling with a condition — for example, finding suitable housing, meeting travel restrictions, or attending courses — speak to your probation officer as early as possible. They may be able to adjust things or refer you to other services for support.

The Risk of Recall

One of the hardest parts of being on licence is knowing that you can be recalled to prison. Recall can happen for two reasons: either you’ve been accused of breaching your licence conditions, or probation believes your risk has increased and you can’t be managed safely in the community.

Recalls aren’t always permanent. In some cases, you might be returned to custody for a fixed period before being released again, but for more serious breaches, you could stay inside until your original sentence expiry date. If you think a recall is unfair, there are routes to challenge it — but time limits are short, and it’s always better to avoid breaching in the first place if you can.

Balancing Freedom and Responsibility

Life on licence can feel restrictive at times, but it’s also a second chance — an opportunity to start rebuilding your life outside prison walls. Securing stable housing, rebuilding relationships, looking after your mental health, and accessing support for work, education, or training can all make a huge difference.

It’s normal to feel frustrated with the process, especially if conditions feel unfair or overly strict, but engaging with support services and sticking to the rules reduces the risk of recall and gets you closer to the finish line. For families and supporters, understanding how licence works helps you provide the right kind of encouragement without unintentionally making things harder.

Walking out of the prison gates is often described as freedom — but for many, it’s the start of an entirely new challenge. Life after release can feel overwhelming, whether you’re the one coming out or supporting someone who is. There’s relief, yes, but there’s also uncertainty, anxiety, and the weight of rebuilding a life that’s been on hold.

Reintegration isn’t about going back to how things were before — it’s about creating a new way forward. The CJS Hub is here to help you navigate that journey, offering practical advice and pointing you towards the right support.

---

Facing the First Few Days

The first days after release are often the hardest. Everything feels fast, noisy, and different, especially if someone’s been inside for months or years. Even small tasks — using a bank card, travelling, or accessing healthcare — can feel daunting.

This is also the stage where licence conditions or probation requirements kick in. There might be curfews, reporting times, or restrictions on where you can live or who you can contact. Understanding these rules early on helps avoid mistakes that could lead to recall.

For family and friends, patience is key. Give your loved one space to process everything, but be ready to step in if they need practical help. Sometimes that’s as simple as helping with paperwork, arranging appointments, or offering a quiet place to breathe.

---

Building a Stable Foundation

Rebuilding life after release starts with stability. That usually means securing three essentials:

• Somewhere safe to live — This could be temporary housing, staying with family, or applying for supported accommodation. Probation and resettlement teams can sometimes help, but spaces are limited, so it’s worth exploring multiple options.
• A source of income — Whether through work, benefits, or a mix of both, having financial stability reduces stress and risk. Finding employment can be challenging with a record, but support organisations exist to connect people with second-chance employers.
• Access to healthcare — Many people leave prison with untreated mental or physical health issues. Registering with a GP and getting referrals where needed is an important early step.

Getting these basics sorted doesn’t solve everything — but without them, rebuilding is almost impossible.

---

Staying Connected and Supported

For many, release is emotionally messy. There can be shame, anger, anxiety, or even guilt about lost time. Relationships with partners, children, and friends may feel strained or uncertain. Rebuilding trust takes patience and honesty — both ways.

Support doesn’t just come from family. Community groups, peer networks, and mentoring programmes can offer spaces where people don’t have to explain themselves. These networks help with motivation, confidence, and knowing you’re not going through it alone.

---

Making Use of Available Help

There are organisations across England and Wales dedicated to helping people rebuild after release. From housing charities and employment projects to mental health services and addiction recovery programmes, there is help out there — though it isn’t always easy to find or access.

The CJS Hub is pulling these resources together in one place to make them easier to navigate. Whether you’re looking for practical support, peer communities, or someone who understands what you’re facing, we’ll point you in the right direction.

---

Life after prison can be challenging, but it isn’t hopeless. Rebuilding takes time, persistence, and support — but with the right help, it is absolutely possible to move forward. Every step, no matter how small, is progress.

The CJS Hub exists to guide you through this stage — connecting you with information, resources, and a community of people who understand what you’re going through.

Coming out of prison can feel like stepping into an entirely different world. Whether you’ve been inside for a few weeks or several years, release brings new freedoms — but also new challenges. Securing somewhere to live, finding work, reconnecting with family, and managing your mental health can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re navigating the conditions of your licence at the same time.

The good news is that there are systems, services, and organisations designed to help you start again. Understanding what support is available — and knowing how to access it — can make all the difference in rebuilding your life.

---

Finding a Place to Live

A stable home is one of the biggest factors in successful reintegration. Before release, probation and resettlement teams should work with you to create a plan for where you’ll live. In some cases, you may be offered a place in approved premises (sometimes called “hostels”), especially if there’s no safe or suitable address to return to. These come with curfews and stricter monitoring, but they also provide a secure base to get back on your feet.

If you have family or friends willing to house you, probation will need to assess the address before approving it. Where that’s not an option, you’ll usually be referred to your local council’s housing team. The reality, though, is that demand is high, and some areas have long waiting lists or limited options. It can help to seek advice early, both from your probation officer and from specialist housing organisations who understand the extra barriers faced by people with criminal records.

---

Getting Back Into Work

Employment can play a huge role in reducing reoffending and rebuilding confidence — but it’s not always easy. Some employers are open to giving people a second chance, while others may require you to disclose your conviction depending on the role and when your record becomes “spent” under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act.

Start by checking whether your prison or probation team has links to employability programmes or organisations that support people with convictions. Some charities and training providers specialise in helping you write CVs, prepare for interviews, and understand your rights around disclosure. Even voluntary roles or short courses can help build confidence and show future employers that you’re working towards stability.

---

Looking After Your Mental Health

Release can bring unexpected emotions. Relief, anxiety, guilt, frustration — it’s a lot to process, especially if you’ve spent time away from loved ones, lost your job, or feel overwhelmed by the conditions attached to your release. It’s common for people to experience low mood or high stress in the weeks and months after leaving custody.

Support is available, both through prison healthcare teams before release and through the NHS or local mental health services afterwards. Don’t hesitate to speak to your probation officer if you’re struggling — they can refer you to specialist providers and peer support networks. You’re not expected to manage everything on your own.

---

Rebuilding Through Support Services

There are a number of services and organisations across England and Wales that can help you get back on track. These range from housing charities to employment schemes and counselling providers. For example:

• Probation Resettlement Teams – Help with housing, benefits, and licence-related support.
• National Careers Service – Free advice on finding work and training opportunities.
• Unlock – A charity supporting people with convictions, especially around employment and disclosure.
• Mind and Samaritans – Support for anyone struggling with mental health or coping after release.
• Citizens Advice – Guidance on benefits, debt, housing, and legal rights.

Using the right mix of services early on can stop small problems from spiralling into bigger ones and give you a better chance of success outside.

---

Reconnecting With Family and Community

One of the biggest hurdles for many people leaving prison is repairing relationships. Time inside can put strain on families, partners, and friendships — and in some cases, rebuilding trust takes time. Some probation teams and charities run family support programmes designed to help everyone adjust and talk openly about expectations after release.

Community reintegration isn’t just about avoiding prison — it’s about finding a sense of belonging again. Joining peer support groups, attending recovery meetings, or connecting with organisations like the CJS Hub can give you the tools and confidence to move forward.

---

Reintegration isn’t easy, and it rarely happens overnight. You might face setbacks — housing refusals, job rejections, strained relationships — but every small step forward matters. Understanding the support available, working closely with probation where needed, and accessing the right services gives you the best possible chance of building a stable, fulfilling life beyond custody.

The CJS Hub is here to guide you, your family, and your supporters through this process — helping you find practical answers and pointing you towards services that can really make a difference.

Understand the differences between bail, police bail, and Release Under Investigation (RUI).

Police Bail (Pre‑Charge Bail)

Also known as pre-charge bail, this is used when the police have arrested someone but aren’t ready to charge them yet. Instead of keeping you in custody, they release you with requirements, such as returning to the station or sticking to certain conditions.

Under PACE and updated by the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022, these bail periods can now last up to nine months—initially up to three months, then extendable twice by three months each. If more time is needed after nine months, the police must go to court for approval.

Conditions might include:
- Reporting regularly to a police station
- Staying away from certain individuals or locations
- Not interfering with evidence or witnesses.

If you fail to comply with the conditions, it’s not automatically a criminal offence—but you can be re-arrested and potentially denied bail in future.

---

Release Under Investigation (RUI)

Released Under Investigation, or RUI, means you’re allowed to go home without any conditions and without a set date to return. The police may still be investigating, but there’s no formal timeline.

This became more common after 2017 reforms that limited the use of bail, although those changes caused frustration because:

• There’s no time limit or oversight on how long it lasts.
• There are no conditions, so nothing stops you from contacting people involved—though you should seek advice before doing so.
• It leaves both the suspect and the alleged victim in limbo, sometimes for months or even longer.

The Police Crime Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 aimed to correct this by encouraging more use of bail (when necessary and proportionate), to provide more oversight and structure.

---

Post-Charge Bail (Court Bail)

Once you’ve been formally charged, you can be released on bail by the court. This might be for your first hearing or while awaiting trial. Conditions can still apply, and you must appear in court on the set date.

---

Summary Table

Situation	What It Means	Timeframe & Conditions
Police Bail (Pre-Charge)	Released from custody but with conditions	Up to 9 months, conditions applied. After 9 Month to extend police must apply to the courts
Release Under Investigation (RUI)	Released without conditions or time limits	No time limits, no conditions; can feel indefinite
Charged/Bailed To Court	Released after charge and given a date to attend court. This can be with or without bail conditions.	To attend court on the date the custody officer tells you at point of release.

---

Final Thoughts

• Police Bail gives structure and oversight, particularly useful when conditions are necessary.
• RUI avoids restrictions—but can leave you stuck without answers or guidance.
• Charged/Bailed To Court – ensures you avoid unnecessary custody while waiting for your hearing.

If you’re unsure what your status means, or what to do next, getting legal advice early is always a wise move.

Understanding When People Are Released

One of the hardest parts of going through the criminal justice system — whether you’re serving time or supporting someone inside — is trying to understand when release might actually happen. There isn’t one simple answer, because different types of sentence have very different rules about when someone can leave custody. Knowing how the system works helps you plan, manage expectations, and focus on what you can control along the way.

Fixed-Term (Determinate) Sentences

Most people in prison are serving what’s called a determinate sentence. That simply means the court sets a fixed length, and your release date is calculated from that.

For determinate sentences under four years, the usual rule is that you serve half of the sentence in custody and the rest on licence in the community, under probation supervision. If you’re given four years, for example, you’ll normally spend around two inside, then be released automatically at the halfway point. You don’t need to apply — it’s automatic unless something unusual happens, like being recalled or facing new charges.

For sentences over four years, the process can be slightly different depending on the offence and the level of risk assessed by probation. Some prisoners are still released automatically at the halfway stage, but others may have to wait until they’ve served two-thirds before automatic release kicks in. In certain cases — especially for more serious offences — release at two-thirds is no longer automatic and instead depends on a review by the Parole Board.

Extended Determinate Sentences (EDS)

If someone has been deemed a higher risk to the public, they might be given an Extended Determinate Sentence. These combine a custodial period with an extended period of licence once released. The big difference here is that release is not automatic at halfway — you usually have to serve two-thirds of the custodial part before you’re even eligible to apply for release, and it’s the Parole Board that decides whether you can leave at that point. If they say no, you’ll stay inside until the end of the custodial term before moving onto licence.

Life Sentences

Life doesn’t always mean life — but it does mean the sentence lasts for the rest of the person’s life. When a court hands down a life sentence, it also sets a minimum term (sometimes called the “tariff”), which is the amount of time that must be served before the person can even be considered for release.

Once that minimum term has been served, the case goes to the Parole Board, who look at things like behaviour in custody, completed courses, risk assessments, and any evidence of rehabilitation. There’s no guarantee of release at the tariff point — some people spend many more years inside if the board isn’t satisfied that the risk can be managed in the community. Even after release, people on life sentences remain on licence for the rest of their lives and can be recalled at any time.

IPP Sentences (Imprisonment for Public Protection)

Although IPP sentences were scrapped in 2012, thousands of people are still serving them today. They’re one of the most complex and controversial parts of the system. With an IPP, the judge sets a minimum tariff, but after that, there’s no automatic release.

People on IPP stay in custody until the Parole Board is convinced that the risk can be safely managed in the community. Many people serve far beyond their tariffs, and even after release, the licence period lasts at least ten years before it can be considered for termination. If you or someone you’re supporting is serving an IPP, seeking specialist advice and gathering strong evidence of rehabilitation can make a huge difference.

Home Detention Curfew (HDC) and Early Release

For some people serving determinate sentences of between 12 weeks and four years, there’s a possibility of being released earlier than the halfway point under the Home Detention Curfew (HDC) scheme — often called “tagging.”

Eligibility depends on the sentence length, behaviour in custody, and whether there’s a safe address to go to. If approved, you could leave prison up to 135 days early, but you’ll have strict curfew conditions and electronic monitoring. Not everyone qualifies — violent, sexual, and high-risk cases are often excluded — but it’s worth applying if you meet the criteria.

Preparing for Release

Across all sentence types, your behaviour, engagement with rehabilitation, and willingness to prepare for life outside can affect release decisions — especially where the Parole Board is involved. Completing accredited courses, keeping out of trouble, working or studying inside, and showing progress in managing risk can all strengthen your position when the time comes.

If you’re supporting someone inside, helping them stay on top of sentence planning, encouraging engagement with probation, and being part of their resettlement plans can make a real difference.

What to Expect

For most people leaving prison, the sentence doesn’t end at the gate. Being released doesn’t mean you’re free to do whatever you like — you’ll almost always leave on licence. That means you’re allowed back into the community, but you’re still serving your sentence under specific rules and supervision. Understanding how your licence works, what probation expects, and where the risks lie is the key to staying on track and rebuilding your life.

What It Means to Be on Licence

When you’re released from custody, the rest of your sentence is served in the community under supervision. You’re free from the day-to-day restrictions of prison, but you’re not fully finished with the criminal justice system until your licence period ends. For most determinate sentences, this lasts until the original end date of your sentence. For life sentences and IPP sentences, licence conditions can last for many years — sometimes for life — though there are ways to apply for early termination in certain situations.

Your licence conditions are set by the Probation Service and approved by the Prison Governor before release. They’re designed to manage risk and support your reintegration. Some are standard, while others are tailored to your offence, your background, and the assessment of your risk.

Common Licence Conditions

While the exact rules vary from case to case, most people can expect conditions like:

• Living at an approved address and informing probation of any changes
• Attending regular meetings with your probation officer
• Staying away from certain people, places, or areas if they’re linked to your offence
• Not committing further offences or doing anything that raises risk concerns
• Allowing probation to visit you at home
• Seeking permission before travelling outside England & Wales

For some, especially those convicted of sexual or violent offences, there can be additional restrictions — like not contacting certain people, using the internet in specific ways, or attending treatment programmes. These will be explained in writing before you leave prison, and it’s crucial to make sure you fully understand them before signing anything.

Working with Probation

Probation’s role is to monitor risk, but also to support your resettlement. Some officers are brilliant, others less so — but either way, staying cooperative makes life easier. Missing appointments, ignoring instructions, or being dishonest will almost always cause problems. If you’re struggling with a condition — for example, finding suitable housing, meeting travel restrictions, or attending courses — speak to your probation officer as early as possible. They may be able to adjust things or refer you to other services for support.

The Risk of Recall

One of the hardest parts of being on licence is knowing that you can be recalled to prison. Recall can happen for two reasons: either you’ve been accused of breaching your licence conditions, or probation believes your risk has increased and you can’t be managed safely in the community.

Recalls aren’t always permanent. In some cases, you might be returned to custody for a fixed period before being released again, but for more serious breaches, you could stay inside until your original sentence expiry date. If you think a recall is unfair, there are routes to challenge it — but time limits are short, and it’s always better to avoid breaching in the first place if you can.

Balancing Freedom and Responsibility

Life on licence can feel restrictive at times, but it’s also a second chance — an opportunity to start rebuilding your life outside prison walls. Securing stable housing, rebuilding relationships, looking after your mental health, and accessing support for work, education, or training can all make a huge difference.

It’s normal to feel frustrated with the process, especially if conditions feel unfair or overly strict, but engaging with support services and sticking to the rules reduces the risk of recall and gets you closer to the finish line. For families and supporters, understanding how licence works helps you provide the right kind of encouragement without unintentionally making things harder.

Walking out of the prison gates is often described as freedom — but for many, it’s the start of an entirely new challenge. Life after release can feel overwhelming, whether you’re the one coming out or supporting someone who is. There’s relief, yes, but there’s also uncertainty, anxiety, and the weight of rebuilding a life that’s been on hold.

Reintegration isn’t about going back to how things were before — it’s about creating a new way forward. The CJS Hub is here to help you navigate that journey, offering practical advice and pointing you towards the right support.

---

Facing the First Few Days

The first days after release are often the hardest. Everything feels fast, noisy, and different, especially if someone’s been inside for months or years. Even small tasks — using a bank card, travelling, or accessing healthcare — can feel daunting.

This is also the stage where licence conditions or probation requirements kick in. There might be curfews, reporting times, or restrictions on where you can live or who you can contact. Understanding these rules early on helps avoid mistakes that could lead to recall.

For family and friends, patience is key. Give your loved one space to process everything, but be ready to step in if they need practical help. Sometimes that’s as simple as helping with paperwork, arranging appointments, or offering a quiet place to breathe.

---

Building a Stable Foundation

Rebuilding life after release starts with stability. That usually means securing three essentials:

• Somewhere safe to live — This could be temporary housing, staying with family, or applying for supported accommodation. Probation and resettlement teams can sometimes help, but spaces are limited, so it’s worth exploring multiple options.
• A source of income — Whether through work, benefits, or a mix of both, having financial stability reduces stress and risk. Finding employment can be challenging with a record, but support organisations exist to connect people with second-chance employers.
• Access to healthcare — Many people leave prison with untreated mental or physical health issues. Registering with a GP and getting referrals where needed is an important early step.

Getting these basics sorted doesn’t solve everything — but without them, rebuilding is almost impossible.

---

Staying Connected and Supported

For many, release is emotionally messy. There can be shame, anger, anxiety, or even guilt about lost time. Relationships with partners, children, and friends may feel strained or uncertain. Rebuilding trust takes patience and honesty — both ways.

Support doesn’t just come from family. Community groups, peer networks, and mentoring programmes can offer spaces where people don’t have to explain themselves. These networks help with motivation, confidence, and knowing you’re not going through it alone.

---

Making Use of Available Help

There are organisations across England and Wales dedicated to helping people rebuild after release. From housing charities and employment projects to mental health services and addiction recovery programmes, there is help out there — though it isn’t always easy to find or access.

The CJS Hub is pulling these resources together in one place to make them easier to navigate. Whether you’re looking for practical support, peer communities, or someone who understands what you’re facing, we’ll point you in the right direction.

---

Life after prison can be challenging, but it isn’t hopeless. Rebuilding takes time, persistence, and support — but with the right help, it is absolutely possible to move forward. Every step, no matter how small, is progress.

The CJS Hub exists to guide you through this stage — connecting you with information, resources, and a community of people who understand what you’re going through.

Understanding When People Are Released

One of the hardest parts of going through the criminal justice system — whether you’re serving time or supporting someone inside — is trying to understand when release might actually happen. There isn’t one simple answer, because different types of sentence have very different rules about when someone can leave custody. Knowing how the system works helps you plan, manage expectations, and focus on what you can control along the way.

Fixed-Term (Determinate) Sentences

Most people in prison are serving what’s called a determinate sentence. That simply means the court sets a fixed length, and your release date is calculated from that.

For determinate sentences under four years, the usual rule is that you serve half of the sentence in custody and the rest on licence in the community, under probation supervision. If you’re given four years, for example, you’ll normally spend around two inside, then be released automatically at the halfway point. You don’t need to apply — it’s automatic unless something unusual happens, like being recalled or facing new charges.

For sentences over four years, the process can be slightly different depending on the offence and the level of risk assessed by probation. Some prisoners are still released automatically at the halfway stage, but others may have to wait until they’ve served two-thirds before automatic release kicks in. In certain cases — especially for more serious offences — release at two-thirds is no longer automatic and instead depends on a review by the Parole Board.

Extended Determinate Sentences (EDS)

If someone has been deemed a higher risk to the public, they might be given an Extended Determinate Sentence. These combine a custodial period with an extended period of licence once released. The big difference here is that release is not automatic at halfway — you usually have to serve two-thirds of the custodial part before you’re even eligible to apply for release, and it’s the Parole Board that decides whether you can leave at that point. If they say no, you’ll stay inside until the end of the custodial term before moving onto licence.

Life Sentences

Life doesn’t always mean life — but it does mean the sentence lasts for the rest of the person’s life. When a court hands down a life sentence, it also sets a minimum term (sometimes called the “tariff”), which is the amount of time that must be served before the person can even be considered for release.

Once that minimum term has been served, the case goes to the Parole Board, who look at things like behaviour in custody, completed courses, risk assessments, and any evidence of rehabilitation. There’s no guarantee of release at the tariff point — some people spend many more years inside if the board isn’t satisfied that the risk can be managed in the community. Even after release, people on life sentences remain on licence for the rest of their lives and can be recalled at any time.

IPP Sentences (Imprisonment for Public Protection)

Although IPP sentences were scrapped in 2012, thousands of people are still serving them today. They’re one of the most complex and controversial parts of the system. With an IPP, the judge sets a minimum tariff, but after that, there’s no automatic release.

People on IPP stay in custody until the Parole Board is convinced that the risk can be safely managed in the community. Many people serve far beyond their tariffs, and even after release, the licence period lasts at least ten years before it can be considered for termination. If you or someone you’re supporting is serving an IPP, seeking specialist advice and gathering strong evidence of rehabilitation can make a huge difference.

Home Detention Curfew (HDC) and Early Release

For some people serving determinate sentences of between 12 weeks and four years, there’s a possibility of being released earlier than the halfway point under the Home Detention Curfew (HDC) scheme — often called “tagging.”

Eligibility depends on the sentence length, behaviour in custody, and whether there’s a safe address to go to. If approved, you could leave prison up to 135 days early, but you’ll have strict curfew conditions and electronic monitoring. Not everyone qualifies — violent, sexual, and high-risk cases are often excluded — but it’s worth applying if you meet the criteria.

Preparing for Release

Across all sentence types, your behaviour, engagement with rehabilitation, and willingness to prepare for life outside can affect release decisions — especially where the Parole Board is involved. Completing accredited courses, keeping out of trouble, working or studying inside, and showing progress in managing risk can all strengthen your position when the time comes.

If you’re supporting someone inside, helping them stay on top of sentence planning, encouraging engagement with probation, and being part of their resettlement plans can make a real difference.

What to Expect

For most people leaving prison, the sentence doesn’t end at the gate. Being released doesn’t mean you’re free to do whatever you like — you’ll almost always leave on licence. That means you’re allowed back into the community, but you’re still serving your sentence under specific rules and supervision. Understanding how your licence works, what probation expects, and where the risks lie is the key to staying on track and rebuilding your life.

What It Means to Be on Licence

When you’re released from custody, the rest of your sentence is served in the community under supervision. You’re free from the day-to-day restrictions of prison, but you’re not fully finished with the criminal justice system until your licence period ends. For most determinate sentences, this lasts until the original end date of your sentence. For life sentences and IPP sentences, licence conditions can last for many years — sometimes for life — though there are ways to apply for early termination in certain situations.

Your licence conditions are set by the Probation Service and approved by the Prison Governor before release. They’re designed to manage risk and support your reintegration. Some are standard, while others are tailored to your offence, your background, and the assessment of your risk.

Common Licence Conditions

While the exact rules vary from case to case, most people can expect conditions like:

• Living at an approved address and informing probation of any changes
• Attending regular meetings with your probation officer
• Staying away from certain people, places, or areas if they’re linked to your offence
• Not committing further offences or doing anything that raises risk concerns
• Allowing probation to visit you at home
• Seeking permission before travelling outside England & Wales

For some, especially those convicted of sexual or violent offences, there can be additional restrictions — like not contacting certain people, using the internet in specific ways, or attending treatment programmes. These will be explained in writing before you leave prison, and it’s crucial to make sure you fully understand them before signing anything.

Working with Probation

Probation’s role is to monitor risk, but also to support your resettlement. Some officers are brilliant, others less so — but either way, staying cooperative makes life easier. Missing appointments, ignoring instructions, or being dishonest will almost always cause problems. If you’re struggling with a condition — for example, finding suitable housing, meeting travel restrictions, or attending courses — speak to your probation officer as early as possible. They may be able to adjust things or refer you to other services for support.

The Risk of Recall

One of the hardest parts of being on licence is knowing that you can be recalled to prison. Recall can happen for two reasons: either you’ve been accused of breaching your licence conditions, or probation believes your risk has increased and you can’t be managed safely in the community.

Recalls aren’t always permanent. In some cases, you might be returned to custody for a fixed period before being released again, but for more serious breaches, you could stay inside until your original sentence expiry date. If you think a recall is unfair, there are routes to challenge it — but time limits are short, and it’s always better to avoid breaching in the first place if you can.

Balancing Freedom and Responsibility

Life on licence can feel restrictive at times, but it’s also a second chance — an opportunity to start rebuilding your life outside prison walls. Securing stable housing, rebuilding relationships, looking after your mental health, and accessing support for work, education, or training can all make a huge difference.

It’s normal to feel frustrated with the process, especially if conditions feel unfair or overly strict, but engaging with support services and sticking to the rules reduces the risk of recall and gets you closer to the finish line. For families and supporters, understanding how licence works helps you provide the right kind of encouragement without unintentionally making things harder.

Coming out of prison can feel like stepping into an entirely different world. Whether you’ve been inside for a few weeks or several years, release brings new freedoms — but also new challenges. Securing somewhere to live, finding work, reconnecting with family, and managing your mental health can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re navigating the conditions of your licence at the same time.

The good news is that there are systems, services, and organisations designed to help you start again. Understanding what support is available — and knowing how to access it — can make all the difference in rebuilding your life.

---

Finding a Place to Live

A stable home is one of the biggest factors in successful reintegration. Before release, probation and resettlement teams should work with you to create a plan for where you’ll live. In some cases, you may be offered a place in approved premises (sometimes called “hostels”), especially if there’s no safe or suitable address to return to. These come with curfews and stricter monitoring, but they also provide a secure base to get back on your feet.

If you have family or friends willing to house you, probation will need to assess the address before approving it. Where that’s not an option, you’ll usually be referred to your local council’s housing team. The reality, though, is that demand is high, and some areas have long waiting lists or limited options. It can help to seek advice early, both from your probation officer and from specialist housing organisations who understand the extra barriers faced by people with criminal records.

---

Getting Back Into Work

Employment can play a huge role in reducing reoffending and rebuilding confidence — but it’s not always easy. Some employers are open to giving people a second chance, while others may require you to disclose your conviction depending on the role and when your record becomes “spent” under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act.

Start by checking whether your prison or probation team has links to employability programmes or organisations that support people with convictions. Some charities and training providers specialise in helping you write CVs, prepare for interviews, and understand your rights around disclosure. Even voluntary roles or short courses can help build confidence and show future employers that you’re working towards stability.

---

Looking After Your Mental Health

Release can bring unexpected emotions. Relief, anxiety, guilt, frustration — it’s a lot to process, especially if you’ve spent time away from loved ones, lost your job, or feel overwhelmed by the conditions attached to your release. It’s common for people to experience low mood or high stress in the weeks and months after leaving custody.

Support is available, both through prison healthcare teams before release and through the NHS or local mental health services afterwards. Don’t hesitate to speak to your probation officer if you’re struggling — they can refer you to specialist providers and peer support networks. You’re not expected to manage everything on your own.

---

Rebuilding Through Support Services

There are a number of services and organisations across England and Wales that can help you get back on track. These range from housing charities to employment schemes and counselling providers. For example:

• Probation Resettlement Teams – Help with housing, benefits, and licence-related support.
• National Careers Service – Free advice on finding work and training opportunities.
• Unlock – A charity supporting people with convictions, especially around employment and disclosure.
• Mind and Samaritans – Support for anyone struggling with mental health or coping after release.
• Citizens Advice – Guidance on benefits, debt, housing, and legal rights.

Using the right mix of services early on can stop small problems from spiralling into bigger ones and give you a better chance of success outside.

---

Reconnecting With Family and Community

One of the biggest hurdles for many people leaving prison is repairing relationships. Time inside can put strain on families, partners, and friendships — and in some cases, rebuilding trust takes time. Some probation teams and charities run family support programmes designed to help everyone adjust and talk openly about expectations after release.

Community reintegration isn’t just about avoiding prison — it’s about finding a sense of belonging again. Joining peer support groups, attending recovery meetings, or connecting with organisations like the CJS Hub can give you the tools and confidence to move forward.

---

Reintegration isn’t easy, and it rarely happens overnight. You might face setbacks — housing refusals, job rejections, strained relationships — but every small step forward matters. Understanding the support available, working closely with probation where needed, and accessing the right services gives you the best possible chance of building a stable, fulfilling life beyond custody.

The CJS Hub is here to guide you, your family, and your supporters through this process — helping you find practical answers and pointing you towards services that can really make a difference.

Understand the differences between bail, police bail, and Release Under Investigation (RUI).

Police Bail (Pre‑Charge Bail)

Also known as pre-charge bail, this is used when the police have arrested someone but aren’t ready to charge them yet. Instead of keeping you in custody, they release you with requirements, such as returning to the station or sticking to certain conditions.

Under PACE and updated by the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022, these bail periods can now last up to nine months—initially up to three months, then extendable twice by three months each. If more time is needed after nine months, the police must go to court for approval.

Conditions might include:
- Reporting regularly to a police station
- Staying away from certain individuals or locations
- Not interfering with evidence or witnesses.

If you fail to comply with the conditions, it’s not automatically a criminal offence—but you can be re-arrested and potentially denied bail in future.

---

Release Under Investigation (RUI)

Released Under Investigation, or RUI, means you’re allowed to go home without any conditions and without a set date to return. The police may still be investigating, but there’s no formal timeline.

This became more common after 2017 reforms that limited the use of bail, although those changes caused frustration because:

• There’s no time limit or oversight on how long it lasts.
• There are no conditions, so nothing stops you from contacting people involved—though you should seek advice before doing so.
• It leaves both the suspect and the alleged victim in limbo, sometimes for months or even longer.

The Police Crime Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 aimed to correct this by encouraging more use of bail (when necessary and proportionate), to provide more oversight and structure.

---

Post-Charge Bail (Court Bail)

Once you’ve been formally charged, you can be released on bail by the court. This might be for your first hearing or while awaiting trial. Conditions can still apply, and you must appear in court on the set date.

---

Summary Table

Situation	What It Means	Timeframe & Conditions
Police Bail (Pre-Charge)	Released from custody but with conditions	Up to 9 months, conditions applied. After 9 Month to extend police must apply to the courts
Release Under Investigation (RUI)	Released without conditions or time limits	No time limits, no conditions; can feel indefinite
Charged/Bailed To Court	Released after charge and given a date to attend court. This can be with or without bail conditions.	To attend court on the date the custody officer tells you at point of release.

---

Final Thoughts

• Police Bail gives structure and oversight, particularly useful when conditions are necessary.
• RUI avoids restrictions—but can leave you stuck without answers or guidance.
• Charged/Bailed To Court – ensures you avoid unnecessary custody while waiting for your hearing.

If you’re unsure what your status means, or what to do next, getting legal advice early is always a wise move.

Planning Your Next Steps

When an investigation ends or a trial is over, it can feel like you should instantly “get back to normal” — but for most people, life after the criminal justice system isn’t that straightforward. The process may be finished, but the emotional, financial, and practical effects often linger.

Planning your next steps is about taking back control. Whether you’ve received an NFA, been acquitted, or are supporting someone else through this stage, it’s about setting realistic goals, rebuilding stability, and creating a path forward at your own pace.

---

Give Yourself Time to Breathe

After months — or sometimes years — of uncertainty, it’s normal to feel lost when the process ends. You may have been living in constant survival mode, focused on getting through each day. Now, the sudden “quiet” can feel unsettling.

Take time to rest and reflect. It’s okay if you don’t have all the answers right away. Recovery isn’t a race, and giving yourself space to process what’s happened is a key part of moving forward.

---

Getting Practical Foundations in Place

Once you feel ready, focus on rebuilding the essentials:

• Finances — If your income was affected, you may be able to access debt advice, benefits support, or financial planning tools to stabilise your situation.
• Housing — Whether you’ve kept your home or need new accommodation, there are local authorities and charities that can help with housing advice.
• Employment — If your job was impacted, start by understanding your rights. Some people return to previous roles, while others explore new careers or training to make a fresh start.

These steps don’t need to happen all at once. Breaking them into manageable goals can make the process less overwhelming.

---

Rebuilding Your Wellbeing

The aftermath of legal challenges can leave lasting emotional strain, whether you’ve been accused, investigated, or simply supporting someone through it. Prioritising your mental and physical health is essential.

• Talk to trusted friends, family, or peer-support groups about what you’ve been through
• Explore counselling or therapy to process the stress and anxiety
• Look after your physical wellbeing with sleep, exercise, and balanced nutrition — even small steps make a difference

The CJS Hub’s Wellbeing Hub offers resources and links to services that can help you look after yourself while rebuilding.

---

Setting New Goals and Finding Purpose

Moving forward often means rediscovering what matters most to you. That might be rebuilding relationships, pursuing education or work, volunteering, or reconnecting with hobbies and passions.

For some, this process brings a renewed sense of strength and clarity about what’s important in life. Others take smaller, steady steps toward regaining stability — both approaches are valid.

---

You’re Not On Your Own

The criminal justice system can leave deep marks, but you don’t have to navigate the next chapter alone. The CJS Hub is here to connect you with guides, resources, and services to help you understand your options and regain confidence about the future.

Whether it’s practical advice or emotional support, there are ways forward — one step at a time.

Understanding When People Are Released

One of the hardest parts of going through the criminal justice system — whether you’re serving time or supporting someone inside — is trying to understand when release might actually happen. There isn’t one simple answer, because different types of sentence have very different rules about when someone can leave custody. Knowing how the system works helps you plan, manage expectations, and focus on what you can control along the way.

Fixed-Term (Determinate) Sentences

Most people in prison are serving what’s called a determinate sentence. That simply means the court sets a fixed length, and your release date is calculated from that.

For determinate sentences under four years, the usual rule is that you serve half of the sentence in custody and the rest on licence in the community, under probation supervision. If you’re given four years, for example, you’ll normally spend around two inside, then be released automatically at the halfway point. You don’t need to apply — it’s automatic unless something unusual happens, like being recalled or facing new charges.

For sentences over four years, the process can be slightly different depending on the offence and the level of risk assessed by probation. Some prisoners are still released automatically at the halfway stage, but others may have to wait until they’ve served two-thirds before automatic release kicks in. In certain cases — especially for more serious offences — release at two-thirds is no longer automatic and instead depends on a review by the Parole Board.

Extended Determinate Sentences (EDS)

If someone has been deemed a higher risk to the public, they might be given an Extended Determinate Sentence. These combine a custodial period with an extended period of licence once released. The big difference here is that release is not automatic at halfway — you usually have to serve two-thirds of the custodial part before you’re even eligible to apply for release, and it’s the Parole Board that decides whether you can leave at that point. If they say no, you’ll stay inside until the end of the custodial term before moving onto licence.

Life Sentences

Life doesn’t always mean life — but it does mean the sentence lasts for the rest of the person’s life. When a court hands down a life sentence, it also sets a minimum term (sometimes called the “tariff”), which is the amount of time that must be served before the person can even be considered for release.

Once that minimum term has been served, the case goes to the Parole Board, who look at things like behaviour in custody, completed courses, risk assessments, and any evidence of rehabilitation. There’s no guarantee of release at the tariff point — some people spend many more years inside if the board isn’t satisfied that the risk can be managed in the community. Even after release, people on life sentences remain on licence for the rest of their lives and can be recalled at any time.

IPP Sentences (Imprisonment for Public Protection)

Although IPP sentences were scrapped in 2012, thousands of people are still serving them today. They’re one of the most complex and controversial parts of the system. With an IPP, the judge sets a minimum tariff, but after that, there’s no automatic release.

People on IPP stay in custody until the Parole Board is convinced that the risk can be safely managed in the community. Many people serve far beyond their tariffs, and even after release, the licence period lasts at least ten years before it can be considered for termination. If you or someone you’re supporting is serving an IPP, seeking specialist advice and gathering strong evidence of rehabilitation can make a huge difference.

Home Detention Curfew (HDC) and Early Release

For some people serving determinate sentences of between 12 weeks and four years, there’s a possibility of being released earlier than the halfway point under the Home Detention Curfew (HDC) scheme — often called “tagging.”

Eligibility depends on the sentence length, behaviour in custody, and whether there’s a safe address to go to. If approved, you could leave prison up to 135 days early, but you’ll have strict curfew conditions and electronic monitoring. Not everyone qualifies — violent, sexual, and high-risk cases are often excluded — but it’s worth applying if you meet the criteria.

Preparing for Release

Across all sentence types, your behaviour, engagement with rehabilitation, and willingness to prepare for life outside can affect release decisions — especially where the Parole Board is involved. Completing accredited courses, keeping out of trouble, working or studying inside, and showing progress in managing risk can all strengthen your position when the time comes.

If you’re supporting someone inside, helping them stay on top of sentence planning, encouraging engagement with probation, and being part of their resettlement plans can make a real difference.

What to Expect

For most people leaving prison, the sentence doesn’t end at the gate. Being released doesn’t mean you’re free to do whatever you like — you’ll almost always leave on licence. That means you’re allowed back into the community, but you’re still serving your sentence under specific rules and supervision. Understanding how your licence works, what probation expects, and where the risks lie is the key to staying on track and rebuilding your life.

What It Means to Be on Licence

When you’re released from custody, the rest of your sentence is served in the community under supervision. You’re free from the day-to-day restrictions of prison, but you’re not fully finished with the criminal justice system until your licence period ends. For most determinate sentences, this lasts until the original end date of your sentence. For life sentences and IPP sentences, licence conditions can last for many years — sometimes for life — though there are ways to apply for early termination in certain situations.

Your licence conditions are set by the Probation Service and approved by the Prison Governor before release. They’re designed to manage risk and support your reintegration. Some are standard, while others are tailored to your offence, your background, and the assessment of your risk.

Common Licence Conditions

While the exact rules vary from case to case, most people can expect conditions like:

• Living at an approved address and informing probation of any changes
• Attending regular meetings with your probation officer
• Staying away from certain people, places, or areas if they’re linked to your offence
• Not committing further offences or doing anything that raises risk concerns
• Allowing probation to visit you at home
• Seeking permission before travelling outside England & Wales

For some, especially those convicted of sexual or violent offences, there can be additional restrictions — like not contacting certain people, using the internet in specific ways, or attending treatment programmes. These will be explained in writing before you leave prison, and it’s crucial to make sure you fully understand them before signing anything.

Working with Probation

Probation’s role is to monitor risk, but also to support your resettlement. Some officers are brilliant, others less so — but either way, staying cooperative makes life easier. Missing appointments, ignoring instructions, or being dishonest will almost always cause problems. If you’re struggling with a condition — for example, finding suitable housing, meeting travel restrictions, or attending courses — speak to your probation officer as early as possible. They may be able to adjust things or refer you to other services for support.

The Risk of Recall

One of the hardest parts of being on licence is knowing that you can be recalled to prison. Recall can happen for two reasons: either you’ve been accused of breaching your licence conditions, or probation believes your risk has increased and you can’t be managed safely in the community.

Recalls aren’t always permanent. In some cases, you might be returned to custody for a fixed period before being released again, but for more serious breaches, you could stay inside until your original sentence expiry date. If you think a recall is unfair, there are routes to challenge it — but time limits are short, and it’s always better to avoid breaching in the first place if you can.

Balancing Freedom and Responsibility

Life on licence can feel restrictive at times, but it’s also a second chance — an opportunity to start rebuilding your life outside prison walls. Securing stable housing, rebuilding relationships, looking after your mental health, and accessing support for work, education, or training can all make a huge difference.

It’s normal to feel frustrated with the process, especially if conditions feel unfair or overly strict, but engaging with support services and sticking to the rules reduces the risk of recall and gets you closer to the finish line. For families and supporters, understanding how licence works helps you provide the right kind of encouragement without unintentionally making things harder.

Walking out of the prison gates is often described as freedom — but for many, it’s the start of an entirely new challenge. Life after release can feel overwhelming, whether you’re the one coming out or supporting someone who is. There’s relief, yes, but there’s also uncertainty, anxiety, and the weight of rebuilding a life that’s been on hold.

Reintegration isn’t about going back to how things were before — it’s about creating a new way forward. The CJS Hub is here to help you navigate that journey, offering practical advice and pointing you towards the right support.

---

Facing the First Few Days

The first days after release are often the hardest. Everything feels fast, noisy, and different, especially if someone’s been inside for months or years. Even small tasks — using a bank card, travelling, or accessing healthcare — can feel daunting.

This is also the stage where licence conditions or probation requirements kick in. There might be curfews, reporting times, or restrictions on where you can live or who you can contact. Understanding these rules early on helps avoid mistakes that could lead to recall.

For family and friends, patience is key. Give your loved one space to process everything, but be ready to step in if they need practical help. Sometimes that’s as simple as helping with paperwork, arranging appointments, or offering a quiet place to breathe.

---

Building a Stable Foundation

Rebuilding life after release starts with stability. That usually means securing three essentials:

• Somewhere safe to live — This could be temporary housing, staying with family, or applying for supported accommodation. Probation and resettlement teams can sometimes help, but spaces are limited, so it’s worth exploring multiple options.
• A source of income — Whether through work, benefits, or a mix of both, having financial stability reduces stress and risk. Finding employment can be challenging with a record, but support organisations exist to connect people with second-chance employers.
• Access to healthcare — Many people leave prison with untreated mental or physical health issues. Registering with a GP and getting referrals where needed is an important early step.

Getting these basics sorted doesn’t solve everything — but without them, rebuilding is almost impossible.

---

Staying Connected and Supported

For many, release is emotionally messy. There can be shame, anger, anxiety, or even guilt about lost time. Relationships with partners, children, and friends may feel strained or uncertain. Rebuilding trust takes patience and honesty — both ways.

Support doesn’t just come from family. Community groups, peer networks, and mentoring programmes can offer spaces where people don’t have to explain themselves. These networks help with motivation, confidence, and knowing you’re not going through it alone.

---

Making Use of Available Help

There are organisations across England and Wales dedicated to helping people rebuild after release. From housing charities and employment projects to mental health services and addiction recovery programmes, there is help out there — though it isn’t always easy to find or access.

The CJS Hub is pulling these resources together in one place to make them easier to navigate. Whether you’re looking for practical support, peer communities, or someone who understands what you’re facing, we’ll point you in the right direction.

---

Life after prison can be challenging, but it isn’t hopeless. Rebuilding takes time, persistence, and support — but with the right help, it is absolutely possible to move forward. Every step, no matter how small, is progress.

The CJS Hub exists to guide you through this stage — connecting you with information, resources, and a community of people who understand what you’re going through.

Being accused of a crime — even if you’re later acquitted or receive a No Further Action (NFA) decision — changes things. For many people, the legal process ends long before the emotional fallout does. Trust can be shaken, relationships strained, and connections with colleagues, friends, or family may feel fragile.

Rebuilding those personal and professional ties takes time, patience, and understanding — both from you and from the people around you. It’s not always easy, but it is possible.

---

Starting with Yourself

Before you can rebuild relationships with others, it often helps to focus on yourself first. The stress of an accusation and investigation can leave you drained, anxious, or even resentful. Taking time to process your own feelings — whether that’s through counselling, peer support, or just having space to breathe — can make you better prepared to reconnect with others in a healthy way.

---

Reconnecting with Family and Friends

Family and close friends often go through their own emotional journey during an accusation. Some may have stood firmly by you; others may have stepped back, unsure how to cope or what to believe. Both reactions are common, and healing those divides takes honesty and patience.

Start small — open conversations about how you’ve been affected, listen to their perspective, and acknowledge any hurt or confusion they may have experienced too. Some relationships bounce back quickly; others may take longer, and that’s okay.

Peer support groups, such as those connected through the CJS Hub, can also be valuable spaces to talk to people who’ve faced similar challenges and understand the emotional weight involved.

---

Rebuilding Professional Relationships

Allegations can also impact your work life, even if you’re fully cleared. Employers and colleagues may have heard rumours or been directly affected during the investigation. Returning to work — or finding new employment — can feel daunting, but there are practical steps you can take:

• If your case resulted in an NFA or acquittal, request written confirmation from the police or your solicitor. This can reassure employers where needed.
• Be selective about what you share — you don’t need to relive every detail to explain your situation.
• If you were dismissed or suspended, consider asking for advice on your employment rights.

Rebuilding your professional reputation takes time, but focusing on your skills, reliability, and work ethic is often the strongest way to change perceptions.

---

When Relationships Don’t Recover

It’s painful, but some connections may not survive. False allegations and prolonged investigations can create divides that are too deep to fully repair. That doesn’t mean you’ve failed — it means some people weren’t able or willing to work through it with you.

In those cases, putting energy into building new healthy relationships, joining supportive communities, and focusing on your own recovery can be a powerful way to move forward.

---

An acquittal or NFA decision can lift the weight of the legal process, but rebuilding your life and relationships often takes time. Be patient with yourself, patient with others, and seek out spaces where you feel safe, supported, and understood.

The CJS Hub is here to provide resources, guides, and peer connections to help you navigate this journey — for both you and the people around you.

Coming out of prison can feel like stepping into an entirely different world. Whether you’ve been inside for a few weeks or several years, release brings new freedoms — but also new challenges. Securing somewhere to live, finding work, reconnecting with family, and managing your mental health can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re navigating the conditions of your licence at the same time.

The good news is that there are systems, services, and organisations designed to help you start again. Understanding what support is available — and knowing how to access it — can make all the difference in rebuilding your life.

---

Finding a Place to Live

A stable home is one of the biggest factors in successful reintegration. Before release, probation and resettlement teams should work with you to create a plan for where you’ll live. In some cases, you may be offered a place in approved premises (sometimes called “hostels”), especially if there’s no safe or suitable address to return to. These come with curfews and stricter monitoring, but they also provide a secure base to get back on your feet.

If you have family or friends willing to house you, probation will need to assess the address before approving it. Where that’s not an option, you’ll usually be referred to your local council’s housing team. The reality, though, is that demand is high, and some areas have long waiting lists or limited options. It can help to seek advice early, both from your probation officer and from specialist housing organisations who understand the extra barriers faced by people with criminal records.

---

Getting Back Into Work

Employment can play a huge role in reducing reoffending and rebuilding confidence — but it’s not always easy. Some employers are open to giving people a second chance, while others may require you to disclose your conviction depending on the role and when your record becomes “spent” under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act.

Start by checking whether your prison or probation team has links to employability programmes or organisations that support people with convictions. Some charities and training providers specialise in helping you write CVs, prepare for interviews, and understand your rights around disclosure. Even voluntary roles or short courses can help build confidence and show future employers that you’re working towards stability.

---

Looking After Your Mental Health

Release can bring unexpected emotions. Relief, anxiety, guilt, frustration — it’s a lot to process, especially if you’ve spent time away from loved ones, lost your job, or feel overwhelmed by the conditions attached to your release. It’s common for people to experience low mood or high stress in the weeks and months after leaving custody.

Support is available, both through prison healthcare teams before release and through the NHS or local mental health services afterwards. Don’t hesitate to speak to your probation officer if you’re struggling — they can refer you to specialist providers and peer support networks. You’re not expected to manage everything on your own.

---

Rebuilding Through Support Services

There are a number of services and organisations across England and Wales that can help you get back on track. These range from housing charities to employment schemes and counselling providers. For example:

• Probation Resettlement Teams – Help with housing, benefits, and licence-related support.
• National Careers Service – Free advice on finding work and training opportunities.
• Unlock – A charity supporting people with convictions, especially around employment and disclosure.
• Mind and Samaritans – Support for anyone struggling with mental health or coping after release.
• Citizens Advice – Guidance on benefits, debt, housing, and legal rights.

Using the right mix of services early on can stop small problems from spiralling into bigger ones and give you a better chance of success outside.

---

Reconnecting With Family and Community

One of the biggest hurdles for many people leaving prison is repairing relationships. Time inside can put strain on families, partners, and friendships — and in some cases, rebuilding trust takes time. Some probation teams and charities run family support programmes designed to help everyone adjust and talk openly about expectations after release.

Community reintegration isn’t just about avoiding prison — it’s about finding a sense of belonging again. Joining peer support groups, attending recovery meetings, or connecting with organisations like the CJS Hub can give you the tools and confidence to move forward.

---

Reintegration isn’t easy, and it rarely happens overnight. You might face setbacks — housing refusals, job rejections, strained relationships — but every small step forward matters. Understanding the support available, working closely with probation where needed, and accessing the right services gives you the best possible chance of building a stable, fulfilling life beyond custody.

The CJS Hub is here to guide you, your family, and your supporters through this process — helping you find practical answers and pointing you towards services that can really make a difference.

Understand the differences between bail, police bail, and Release Under Investigation (RUI).

Police Bail (Pre‑Charge Bail)

Also known as pre-charge bail, this is used when the police have arrested someone but aren’t ready to charge them yet. Instead of keeping you in custody, they release you with requirements, such as returning to the station or sticking to certain conditions.

Under PACE and updated by the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022, these bail periods can now last up to nine months—initially up to three months, then extendable twice by three months each. If more time is needed after nine months, the police must go to court for approval.

Conditions might include:
- Reporting regularly to a police station
- Staying away from certain individuals or locations
- Not interfering with evidence or witnesses.

If you fail to comply with the conditions, it’s not automatically a criminal offence—but you can be re-arrested and potentially denied bail in future.

---

Release Under Investigation (RUI)

Released Under Investigation, or RUI, means you’re allowed to go home without any conditions and without a set date to return. The police may still be investigating, but there’s no formal timeline.

This became more common after 2017 reforms that limited the use of bail, although those changes caused frustration because:

• There’s no time limit or oversight on how long it lasts.
• There are no conditions, so nothing stops you from contacting people involved—though you should seek advice before doing so.
• It leaves both the suspect and the alleged victim in limbo, sometimes for months or even longer.

The Police Crime Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 aimed to correct this by encouraging more use of bail (when necessary and proportionate), to provide more oversight and structure.

---

Post-Charge Bail (Court Bail)

Once you’ve been formally charged, you can be released on bail by the court. This might be for your first hearing or while awaiting trial. Conditions can still apply, and you must appear in court on the set date.

---

Summary Table

Situation	What It Means	Timeframe & Conditions
Police Bail (Pre-Charge)	Released from custody but with conditions	Up to 9 months, conditions applied. After 9 Month to extend police must apply to the courts
Release Under Investigation (RUI)	Released without conditions or time limits	No time limits, no conditions; can feel indefinite
Charged/Bailed To Court	Released after charge and given a date to attend court. This can be with or without bail conditions.	To attend court on the date the custody officer tells you at point of release.

---

Final Thoughts

• Police Bail gives structure and oversight, particularly useful when conditions are necessary.
• RUI avoids restrictions—but can leave you stuck without answers or guidance.
• Charged/Bailed To Court – ensures you avoid unnecessary custody while waiting for your hearing.

If you’re unsure what your status means, or what to do next, getting legal advice early is always a wise move.

Planning Your Next Steps

When an investigation ends or a trial is over, it can feel like you should instantly “get back to normal” — but for most people, life after the criminal justice system isn’t that straightforward. The process may be finished, but the emotional, financial, and practical effects often linger.

Planning your next steps is about taking back control. Whether you’ve received an NFA, been acquitted, or are supporting someone else through this stage, it’s about setting realistic goals, rebuilding stability, and creating a path forward at your own pace.

---

Give Yourself Time to Breathe

After months — or sometimes years — of uncertainty, it’s normal to feel lost when the process ends. You may have been living in constant survival mode, focused on getting through each day. Now, the sudden “quiet” can feel unsettling.

Take time to rest and reflect. It’s okay if you don’t have all the answers right away. Recovery isn’t a race, and giving yourself space to process what’s happened is a key part of moving forward.

---

Getting Practical Foundations in Place

Once you feel ready, focus on rebuilding the essentials:

• Finances — If your income was affected, you may be able to access debt advice, benefits support, or financial planning tools to stabilise your situation.
• Housing — Whether you’ve kept your home or need new accommodation, there are local authorities and charities that can help with housing advice.
• Employment — If your job was impacted, start by understanding your rights. Some people return to previous roles, while others explore new careers or training to make a fresh start.

These steps don’t need to happen all at once. Breaking them into manageable goals can make the process less overwhelming.

---

Rebuilding Your Wellbeing

The aftermath of legal challenges can leave lasting emotional strain, whether you’ve been accused, investigated, or simply supporting someone through it. Prioritising your mental and physical health is essential.

• Talk to trusted friends, family, or peer-support groups about what you’ve been through
• Explore counselling or therapy to process the stress and anxiety
• Look after your physical wellbeing with sleep, exercise, and balanced nutrition — even small steps make a difference

The CJS Hub’s Wellbeing Hub offers resources and links to services that can help you look after yourself while rebuilding.

---

Setting New Goals and Finding Purpose

Moving forward often means rediscovering what matters most to you. That might be rebuilding relationships, pursuing education or work, volunteering, or reconnecting with hobbies and passions.

For some, this process brings a renewed sense of strength and clarity about what’s important in life. Others take smaller, steady steps toward regaining stability — both approaches are valid.

---

You’re Not On Your Own

The criminal justice system can leave deep marks, but you don’t have to navigate the next chapter alone. The CJS Hub is here to connect you with guides, resources, and services to help you understand your options and regain confidence about the future.

Whether it’s practical advice or emotional support, there are ways forward — one step at a time.

Understanding When People Are Released

One of the hardest parts of going through the criminal justice system — whether you’re serving time or supporting someone inside — is trying to understand when release might actually happen. There isn’t one simple answer, because different types of sentence have very different rules about when someone can leave custody. Knowing how the system works helps you plan, manage expectations, and focus on what you can control along the way.

Fixed-Term (Determinate) Sentences

Most people in prison are serving what’s called a determinate sentence. That simply means the court sets a fixed length, and your release date is calculated from that.

For determinate sentences under four years, the usual rule is that you serve half of the sentence in custody and the rest on licence in the community, under probation supervision. If you’re given four years, for example, you’ll normally spend around two inside, then be released automatically at the halfway point. You don’t need to apply — it’s automatic unless something unusual happens, like being recalled or facing new charges.

For sentences over four years, the process can be slightly different depending on the offence and the level of risk assessed by probation. Some prisoners are still released automatically at the halfway stage, but others may have to wait until they’ve served two-thirds before automatic release kicks in. In certain cases — especially for more serious offences — release at two-thirds is no longer automatic and instead depends on a review by the Parole Board.

Extended Determinate Sentences (EDS)

If someone has been deemed a higher risk to the public, they might be given an Extended Determinate Sentence. These combine a custodial period with an extended period of licence once released. The big difference here is that release is not automatic at halfway — you usually have to serve two-thirds of the custodial part before you’re even eligible to apply for release, and it’s the Parole Board that decides whether you can leave at that point. If they say no, you’ll stay inside until the end of the custodial term before moving onto licence.

Life Sentences

Life doesn’t always mean life — but it does mean the sentence lasts for the rest of the person’s life. When a court hands down a life sentence, it also sets a minimum term (sometimes called the “tariff”), which is the amount of time that must be served before the person can even be considered for release.

Once that minimum term has been served, the case goes to the Parole Board, who look at things like behaviour in custody, completed courses, risk assessments, and any evidence of rehabilitation. There’s no guarantee of release at the tariff point — some people spend many more years inside if the board isn’t satisfied that the risk can be managed in the community. Even after release, people on life sentences remain on licence for the rest of their lives and can be recalled at any time.

IPP Sentences (Imprisonment for Public Protection)

Although IPP sentences were scrapped in 2012, thousands of people are still serving them today. They’re one of the most complex and controversial parts of the system. With an IPP, the judge sets a minimum tariff, but after that, there’s no automatic release.

People on IPP stay in custody until the Parole Board is convinced that the risk can be safely managed in the community. Many people serve far beyond their tariffs, and even after release, the licence period lasts at least ten years before it can be considered for termination. If you or someone you’re supporting is serving an IPP, seeking specialist advice and gathering strong evidence of rehabilitation can make a huge difference.

Home Detention Curfew (HDC) and Early Release

For some people serving determinate sentences of between 12 weeks and four years, there’s a possibility of being released earlier than the halfway point under the Home Detention Curfew (HDC) scheme — often called “tagging.”

Eligibility depends on the sentence length, behaviour in custody, and whether there’s a safe address to go to. If approved, you could leave prison up to 135 days early, but you’ll have strict curfew conditions and electronic monitoring. Not everyone qualifies — violent, sexual, and high-risk cases are often excluded — but it’s worth applying if you meet the criteria.

Preparing for Release

Across all sentence types, your behaviour, engagement with rehabilitation, and willingness to prepare for life outside can affect release decisions — especially where the Parole Board is involved. Completing accredited courses, keeping out of trouble, working or studying inside, and showing progress in managing risk can all strengthen your position when the time comes.

If you’re supporting someone inside, helping them stay on top of sentence planning, encouraging engagement with probation, and being part of their resettlement plans can make a real difference.

Walking out of the prison gates is often described as freedom — but for many, it’s the start of an entirely new challenge. Life after release can feel overwhelming, whether you’re the one coming out or supporting someone who is. There’s relief, yes, but there’s also uncertainty, anxiety, and the weight of rebuilding a life that’s been on hold.

Reintegration isn’t about going back to how things were before — it’s about creating a new way forward. The CJS Hub is here to help you navigate that journey, offering practical advice and pointing you towards the right support.

---

Facing the First Few Days

The first days after release are often the hardest. Everything feels fast, noisy, and different, especially if someone’s been inside for months or years. Even small tasks — using a bank card, travelling, or accessing healthcare — can feel daunting.

This is also the stage where licence conditions or probation requirements kick in. There might be curfews, reporting times, or restrictions on where you can live or who you can contact. Understanding these rules early on helps avoid mistakes that could lead to recall.

For family and friends, patience is key. Give your loved one space to process everything, but be ready to step in if they need practical help. Sometimes that’s as simple as helping with paperwork, arranging appointments, or offering a quiet place to breathe.

---

Building a Stable Foundation

Rebuilding life after release starts with stability. That usually means securing three essentials:

• Somewhere safe to live — This could be temporary housing, staying with family, or applying for supported accommodation. Probation and resettlement teams can sometimes help, but spaces are limited, so it’s worth exploring multiple options.
• A source of income — Whether through work, benefits, or a mix of both, having financial stability reduces stress and risk. Finding employment can be challenging with a record, but support organisations exist to connect people with second-chance employers.
• Access to healthcare — Many people leave prison with untreated mental or physical health issues. Registering with a GP and getting referrals where needed is an important early step.

Getting these basics sorted doesn’t solve everything — but without them, rebuilding is almost impossible.

---

Staying Connected and Supported

For many, release is emotionally messy. There can be shame, anger, anxiety, or even guilt about lost time. Relationships with partners, children, and friends may feel strained or uncertain. Rebuilding trust takes patience and honesty — both ways.

Support doesn’t just come from family. Community groups, peer networks, and mentoring programmes can offer spaces where people don’t have to explain themselves. These networks help with motivation, confidence, and knowing you’re not going through it alone.

---

Making Use of Available Help

There are organisations across England and Wales dedicated to helping people rebuild after release. From housing charities and employment projects to mental health services and addiction recovery programmes, there is help out there — though it isn’t always easy to find or access.

The CJS Hub is pulling these resources together in one place to make them easier to navigate. Whether you’re looking for practical support, peer communities, or someone who understands what you’re facing, we’ll point you in the right direction.

---

Life after prison can be challenging, but it isn’t hopeless. Rebuilding takes time, persistence, and support — but with the right help, it is absolutely possible to move forward. Every step, no matter how small, is progress.

The CJS Hub exists to guide you through this stage — connecting you with information, resources, and a community of people who understand what you’re going through.

Being accused of a crime — even if you’re later acquitted or receive a No Further Action (NFA) decision — changes things. For many people, the legal process ends long before the emotional fallout does. Trust can be shaken, relationships strained, and connections with colleagues, friends, or family may feel fragile.

Rebuilding those personal and professional ties takes time, patience, and understanding — both from you and from the people around you. It’s not always easy, but it is possible.

---

Starting with Yourself

Before you can rebuild relationships with others, it often helps to focus on yourself first. The stress of an accusation and investigation can leave you drained, anxious, or even resentful. Taking time to process your own feelings — whether that’s through counselling, peer support, or just having space to breathe — can make you better prepared to reconnect with others in a healthy way.

---

Reconnecting with Family and Friends

Family and close friends often go through their own emotional journey during an accusation. Some may have stood firmly by you; others may have stepped back, unsure how to cope or what to believe. Both reactions are common, and healing those divides takes honesty and patience.

Start small — open conversations about how you’ve been affected, listen to their perspective, and acknowledge any hurt or confusion they may have experienced too. Some relationships bounce back quickly; others may take longer, and that’s okay.

Peer support groups, such as those connected through the CJS Hub, can also be valuable spaces to talk to people who’ve faced similar challenges and understand the emotional weight involved.

---

Rebuilding Professional Relationships

Allegations can also impact your work life, even if you’re fully cleared. Employers and colleagues may have heard rumours or been directly affected during the investigation. Returning to work — or finding new employment — can feel daunting, but there are practical steps you can take:

• If your case resulted in an NFA or acquittal, request written confirmation from the police or your solicitor. This can reassure employers where needed.
• Be selective about what you share — you don’t need to relive every detail to explain your situation.
• If you were dismissed or suspended, consider asking for advice on your employment rights.

Rebuilding your professional reputation takes time, but focusing on your skills, reliability, and work ethic is often the strongest way to change perceptions.

---

When Relationships Don’t Recover

It’s painful, but some connections may not survive. False allegations and prolonged investigations can create divides that are too deep to fully repair. That doesn’t mean you’ve failed — it means some people weren’t able or willing to work through it with you.

In those cases, putting energy into building new healthy relationships, joining supportive communities, and focusing on your own recovery can be a powerful way to move forward.

---

An acquittal or NFA decision can lift the weight of the legal process, but rebuilding your life and relationships often takes time. Be patient with yourself, patient with others, and seek out spaces where you feel safe, supported, and understood.

The CJS Hub is here to provide resources, guides, and peer connections to help you navigate this journey — for both you and the people around you.

Coming out of prison can feel like stepping into an entirely different world. Whether you’ve been inside for a few weeks or several years, release brings new freedoms — but also new challenges. Securing somewhere to live, finding work, reconnecting with family, and managing your mental health can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re navigating the conditions of your licence at the same time.

The good news is that there are systems, services, and organisations designed to help you start again. Understanding what support is available — and knowing how to access it — can make all the difference in rebuilding your life.

---

Finding a Place to Live

A stable home is one of the biggest factors in successful reintegration. Before release, probation and resettlement teams should work with you to create a plan for where you’ll live. In some cases, you may be offered a place in approved premises (sometimes called “hostels”), especially if there’s no safe or suitable address to return to. These come with curfews and stricter monitoring, but they also provide a secure base to get back on your feet.

If you have family or friends willing to house you, probation will need to assess the address before approving it. Where that’s not an option, you’ll usually be referred to your local council’s housing team. The reality, though, is that demand is high, and some areas have long waiting lists or limited options. It can help to seek advice early, both from your probation officer and from specialist housing organisations who understand the extra barriers faced by people with criminal records.

---

Getting Back Into Work

Employment can play a huge role in reducing reoffending and rebuilding confidence — but it’s not always easy. Some employers are open to giving people a second chance, while others may require you to disclose your conviction depending on the role and when your record becomes “spent” under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act.

Start by checking whether your prison or probation team has links to employability programmes or organisations that support people with convictions. Some charities and training providers specialise in helping you write CVs, prepare for interviews, and understand your rights around disclosure. Even voluntary roles or short courses can help build confidence and show future employers that you’re working towards stability.

---

Looking After Your Mental Health

Release can bring unexpected emotions. Relief, anxiety, guilt, frustration — it’s a lot to process, especially if you’ve spent time away from loved ones, lost your job, or feel overwhelmed by the conditions attached to your release. It’s common for people to experience low mood or high stress in the weeks and months after leaving custody.

Support is available, both through prison healthcare teams before release and through the NHS or local mental health services afterwards. Don’t hesitate to speak to your probation officer if you’re struggling — they can refer you to specialist providers and peer support networks. You’re not expected to manage everything on your own.

---

Rebuilding Through Support Services

There are a number of services and organisations across England and Wales that can help you get back on track. These range from housing charities to employment schemes and counselling providers. For example:

• Probation Resettlement Teams – Help with housing, benefits, and licence-related support.
• National Careers Service – Free advice on finding work and training opportunities.
• Unlock – A charity supporting people with convictions, especially around employment and disclosure.
• Mind and Samaritans – Support for anyone struggling with mental health or coping after release.
• Citizens Advice – Guidance on benefits, debt, housing, and legal rights.

Using the right mix of services early on can stop small problems from spiralling into bigger ones and give you a better chance of success outside.

---

Reconnecting With Family and Community

One of the biggest hurdles for many people leaving prison is repairing relationships. Time inside can put strain on families, partners, and friendships — and in some cases, rebuilding trust takes time. Some probation teams and charities run family support programmes designed to help everyone adjust and talk openly about expectations after release.

Community reintegration isn’t just about avoiding prison — it’s about finding a sense of belonging again. Joining peer support groups, attending recovery meetings, or connecting with organisations like the CJS Hub can give you the tools and confidence to move forward.

---

Reintegration isn’t easy, and it rarely happens overnight. You might face setbacks — housing refusals, job rejections, strained relationships — but every small step forward matters. Understanding the support available, working closely with probation where needed, and accessing the right services gives you the best possible chance of building a stable, fulfilling life beyond custody.

The CJS Hub is here to guide you, your family, and your supporters through this process — helping you find practical answers and pointing you towards services that can really make a difference.

Understand the differences between bail, police bail, and Release Under Investigation (RUI).

Police Bail (Pre‑Charge Bail)

Also known as pre-charge bail, this is used when the police have arrested someone but aren’t ready to charge them yet. Instead of keeping you in custody, they release you with requirements, such as returning to the station or sticking to certain conditions.

Under PACE and updated by the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022, these bail periods can now last up to nine months—initially up to three months, then extendable twice by three months each. If more time is needed after nine months, the police must go to court for approval.

Conditions might include:
- Reporting regularly to a police station
- Staying away from certain individuals or locations
- Not interfering with evidence or witnesses.

If you fail to comply with the conditions, it’s not automatically a criminal offence—but you can be re-arrested and potentially denied bail in future.

---

Release Under Investigation (RUI)

Released Under Investigation, or RUI, means you’re allowed to go home without any conditions and without a set date to return. The police may still be investigating, but there’s no formal timeline.

This became more common after 2017 reforms that limited the use of bail, although those changes caused frustration because:

• There’s no time limit or oversight on how long it lasts.
• There are no conditions, so nothing stops you from contacting people involved—though you should seek advice before doing so.
• It leaves both the suspect and the alleged victim in limbo, sometimes for months or even longer.

The Police Crime Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 aimed to correct this by encouraging more use of bail (when necessary and proportionate), to provide more oversight and structure.

---

Post-Charge Bail (Court Bail)

Once you’ve been formally charged, you can be released on bail by the court. This might be for your first hearing or while awaiting trial. Conditions can still apply, and you must appear in court on the set date.

---

Summary Table

Situation	What It Means	Timeframe & Conditions
Police Bail (Pre-Charge)	Released from custody but with conditions	Up to 9 months, conditions applied. After 9 Month to extend police must apply to the courts
Release Under Investigation (RUI)	Released without conditions or time limits	No time limits, no conditions; can feel indefinite
Charged/Bailed To Court	Released after charge and given a date to attend court. This can be with or without bail conditions.	To attend court on the date the custody officer tells you at point of release.

---

Final Thoughts

• Police Bail gives structure and oversight, particularly useful when conditions are necessary.
• RUI avoids restrictions—but can leave you stuck without answers or guidance.
• Charged/Bailed To Court – ensures you avoid unnecessary custody while waiting for your hearing.

If you’re unsure what your status means, or what to do next, getting legal advice early is always a wise move.

Planning Your Next Steps

When an investigation ends or a trial is over, it can feel like you should instantly “get back to normal” — but for most people, life after the criminal justice system isn’t that straightforward. The process may be finished, but the emotional, financial, and practical effects often linger.

Planning your next steps is about taking back control. Whether you’ve received an NFA, been acquitted, or are supporting someone else through this stage, it’s about setting realistic goals, rebuilding stability, and creating a path forward at your own pace.

---

Give Yourself Time to Breathe

After months — or sometimes years — of uncertainty, it’s normal to feel lost when the process ends. You may have been living in constant survival mode, focused on getting through each day. Now, the sudden “quiet” can feel unsettling.

Take time to rest and reflect. It’s okay if you don’t have all the answers right away. Recovery isn’t a race, and giving yourself space to process what’s happened is a key part of moving forward.

---

Getting Practical Foundations in Place

Once you feel ready, focus on rebuilding the essentials:

• Finances — If your income was affected, you may be able to access debt advice, benefits support, or financial planning tools to stabilise your situation.
• Housing — Whether you’ve kept your home or need new accommodation, there are local authorities and charities that can help with housing advice.
• Employment — If your job was impacted, start by understanding your rights. Some people return to previous roles, while others explore new careers or training to make a fresh start.

These steps don’t need to happen all at once. Breaking them into manageable goals can make the process less overwhelming.

---

Rebuilding Your Wellbeing

The aftermath of legal challenges can leave lasting emotional strain, whether you’ve been accused, investigated, or simply supporting someone through it. Prioritising your mental and physical health is essential.

• Talk to trusted friends, family, or peer-support groups about what you’ve been through
• Explore counselling or therapy to process the stress and anxiety
• Look after your physical wellbeing with sleep, exercise, and balanced nutrition — even small steps make a difference

The CJS Hub’s Wellbeing Hub offers resources and links to services that can help you look after yourself while rebuilding.

---

Setting New Goals and Finding Purpose

Moving forward often means rediscovering what matters most to you. That might be rebuilding relationships, pursuing education or work, volunteering, or reconnecting with hobbies and passions.

For some, this process brings a renewed sense of strength and clarity about what’s important in life. Others take smaller, steady steps toward regaining stability — both approaches are valid.

---

You’re Not On Your Own

The criminal justice system can leave deep marks, but you don’t have to navigate the next chapter alone. The CJS Hub is here to connect you with guides, resources, and services to help you understand your options and regain confidence about the future.

Whether it’s practical advice or emotional support, there are ways forward — one step at a time.

Understanding When People Are Released

One of the hardest parts of going through the criminal justice system — whether you’re serving time or supporting someone inside — is trying to understand when release might actually happen. There isn’t one simple answer, because different types of sentence have very different rules about when someone can leave custody. Knowing how the system works helps you plan, manage expectations, and focus on what you can control along the way.

Fixed-Term (Determinate) Sentences

Most people in prison are serving what’s called a determinate sentence. That simply means the court sets a fixed length, and your release date is calculated from that.

For determinate sentences under four years, the usual rule is that you serve half of the sentence in custody and the rest on licence in the community, under probation supervision. If you’re given four years, for example, you’ll normally spend around two inside, then be released automatically at the halfway point. You don’t need to apply — it’s automatic unless something unusual happens, like being recalled or facing new charges.

For sentences over four years, the process can be slightly different depending on the offence and the level of risk assessed by probation. Some prisoners are still released automatically at the halfway stage, but others may have to wait until they’ve served two-thirds before automatic release kicks in. In certain cases — especially for more serious offences — release at two-thirds is no longer automatic and instead depends on a review by the Parole Board.

Extended Determinate Sentences (EDS)

If someone has been deemed a higher risk to the public, they might be given an Extended Determinate Sentence. These combine a custodial period with an extended period of licence once released. The big difference here is that release is not automatic at halfway — you usually have to serve two-thirds of the custodial part before you’re even eligible to apply for release, and it’s the Parole Board that decides whether you can leave at that point. If they say no, you’ll stay inside until the end of the custodial term before moving onto licence.

Life Sentences

Life doesn’t always mean life — but it does mean the sentence lasts for the rest of the person’s life. When a court hands down a life sentence, it also sets a minimum term (sometimes called the “tariff”), which is the amount of time that must be served before the person can even be considered for release.

Once that minimum term has been served, the case goes to the Parole Board, who look at things like behaviour in custody, completed courses, risk assessments, and any evidence of rehabilitation. There’s no guarantee of release at the tariff point — some people spend many more years inside if the board isn’t satisfied that the risk can be managed in the community. Even after release, people on life sentences remain on licence for the rest of their lives and can be recalled at any time.

IPP Sentences (Imprisonment for Public Protection)

Although IPP sentences were scrapped in 2012, thousands of people are still serving them today. They’re one of the most complex and controversial parts of the system. With an IPP, the judge sets a minimum tariff, but after that, there’s no automatic release.

People on IPP stay in custody until the Parole Board is convinced that the risk can be safely managed in the community. Many people serve far beyond their tariffs, and even after release, the licence period lasts at least ten years before it can be considered for termination. If you or someone you’re supporting is serving an IPP, seeking specialist advice and gathering strong evidence of rehabilitation can make a huge difference.

Home Detention Curfew (HDC) and Early Release

For some people serving determinate sentences of between 12 weeks and four years, there’s a possibility of being released earlier than the halfway point under the Home Detention Curfew (HDC) scheme — often called “tagging.”

Eligibility depends on the sentence length, behaviour in custody, and whether there’s a safe address to go to. If approved, you could leave prison up to 135 days early, but you’ll have strict curfew conditions and electronic monitoring. Not everyone qualifies — violent, sexual, and high-risk cases are often excluded — but it’s worth applying if you meet the criteria.

Preparing for Release

Across all sentence types, your behaviour, engagement with rehabilitation, and willingness to prepare for life outside can affect release decisions — especially where the Parole Board is involved. Completing accredited courses, keeping out of trouble, working or studying inside, and showing progress in managing risk can all strengthen your position when the time comes.

If you’re supporting someone inside, helping them stay on top of sentence planning, encouraging engagement with probation, and being part of their resettlement plans can make a real difference.

Walking out of the prison gates is often described as freedom — but for many, it’s the start of an entirely new challenge. Life after release can feel overwhelming, whether you’re the one coming out or supporting someone who is. There’s relief, yes, but there’s also uncertainty, anxiety, and the weight of rebuilding a life that’s been on hold.

Reintegration isn’t about going back to how things were before — it’s about creating a new way forward. The CJS Hub is here to help you navigate that journey, offering practical advice and pointing you towards the right support.

---

Facing the First Few Days

The first days after release are often the hardest. Everything feels fast, noisy, and different, especially if someone’s been inside for months or years. Even small tasks — using a bank card, travelling, or accessing healthcare — can feel daunting.

This is also the stage where licence conditions or probation requirements kick in. There might be curfews, reporting times, or restrictions on where you can live or who you can contact. Understanding these rules early on helps avoid mistakes that could lead to recall.

For family and friends, patience is key. Give your loved one space to process everything, but be ready to step in if they need practical help. Sometimes that’s as simple as helping with paperwork, arranging appointments, or offering a quiet place to breathe.

---

Building a Stable Foundation

Rebuilding life after release starts with stability. That usually means securing three essentials:

• Somewhere safe to live — This could be temporary housing, staying with family, or applying for supported accommodation. Probation and resettlement teams can sometimes help, but spaces are limited, so it’s worth exploring multiple options.
• A source of income — Whether through work, benefits, or a mix of both, having financial stability reduces stress and risk. Finding employment can be challenging with a record, but support organisations exist to connect people with second-chance employers.
• Access to healthcare — Many people leave prison with untreated mental or physical health issues. Registering with a GP and getting referrals where needed is an important early step.

Getting these basics sorted doesn’t solve everything — but without them, rebuilding is almost impossible.

---

Staying Connected and Supported

For many, release is emotionally messy. There can be shame, anger, anxiety, or even guilt about lost time. Relationships with partners, children, and friends may feel strained or uncertain. Rebuilding trust takes patience and honesty — both ways.

Support doesn’t just come from family. Community groups, peer networks, and mentoring programmes can offer spaces where people don’t have to explain themselves. These networks help with motivation, confidence, and knowing you’re not going through it alone.

---

Making Use of Available Help

There are organisations across England and Wales dedicated to helping people rebuild after release. From housing charities and employment projects to mental health services and addiction recovery programmes, there is help out there — though it isn’t always easy to find or access.

The CJS Hub is pulling these resources together in one place to make them easier to navigate. Whether you’re looking for practical support, peer communities, or someone who understands what you’re facing, we’ll point you in the right direction.

---

Life after prison can be challenging, but it isn’t hopeless. Rebuilding takes time, persistence, and support — but with the right help, it is absolutely possible to move forward. Every step, no matter how small, is progress.

The CJS Hub exists to guide you through this stage — connecting you with information, resources, and a community of people who understand what you’re going through.

Being accused of a crime — even if you’re later acquitted or receive a No Further Action (NFA) decision — changes things. For many people, the legal process ends long before the emotional fallout does. Trust can be shaken, relationships strained, and connections with colleagues, friends, or family may feel fragile.

Rebuilding those personal and professional ties takes time, patience, and understanding — both from you and from the people around you. It’s not always easy, but it is possible.

---

Starting with Yourself

Before you can rebuild relationships with others, it often helps to focus on yourself first. The stress of an accusation and investigation can leave you drained, anxious, or even resentful. Taking time to process your own feelings — whether that’s through counselling, peer support, or just having space to breathe — can make you better prepared to reconnect with others in a healthy way.

---

Reconnecting with Family and Friends

Family and close friends often go through their own emotional journey during an accusation. Some may have stood firmly by you; others may have stepped back, unsure how to cope or what to believe. Both reactions are common, and healing those divides takes honesty and patience.

Start small — open conversations about how you’ve been affected, listen to their perspective, and acknowledge any hurt or confusion they may have experienced too. Some relationships bounce back quickly; others may take longer, and that’s okay.

Peer support groups, such as those connected through the CJS Hub, can also be valuable spaces to talk to people who’ve faced similar challenges and understand the emotional weight involved.

---

Rebuilding Professional Relationships

Allegations can also impact your work life, even if you’re fully cleared. Employers and colleagues may have heard rumours or been directly affected during the investigation. Returning to work — or finding new employment — can feel daunting, but there are practical steps you can take:

• If your case resulted in an NFA or acquittal, request written confirmation from the police or your solicitor. This can reassure employers where needed.
• Be selective about what you share — you don’t need to relive every detail to explain your situation.
• If you were dismissed or suspended, consider asking for advice on your employment rights.

Rebuilding your professional reputation takes time, but focusing on your skills, reliability, and work ethic is often the strongest way to change perceptions.

---

When Relationships Don’t Recover

It’s painful, but some connections may not survive. False allegations and prolonged investigations can create divides that are too deep to fully repair. That doesn’t mean you’ve failed — it means some people weren’t able or willing to work through it with you.

In those cases, putting energy into building new healthy relationships, joining supportive communities, and focusing on your own recovery can be a powerful way to move forward.

---

An acquittal or NFA decision can lift the weight of the legal process, but rebuilding your life and relationships often takes time. Be patient with yourself, patient with others, and seek out spaces where you feel safe, supported, and understood.

The CJS Hub is here to provide resources, guides, and peer connections to help you navigate this journey — for both you and the people around you.

Coming out of prison can feel like stepping into an entirely different world. Whether you’ve been inside for a few weeks or several years, release brings new freedoms — but also new challenges. Securing somewhere to live, finding work, reconnecting with family, and managing your mental health can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re navigating the conditions of your licence at the same time.

The good news is that there are systems, services, and organisations designed to help you start again. Understanding what support is available — and knowing how to access it — can make all the difference in rebuilding your life.

---

Finding a Place to Live

A stable home is one of the biggest factors in successful reintegration. Before release, probation and resettlement teams should work with you to create a plan for where you’ll live. In some cases, you may be offered a place in approved premises (sometimes called “hostels”), especially if there’s no safe or suitable address to return to. These come with curfews and stricter monitoring, but they also provide a secure base to get back on your feet.

If you have family or friends willing to house you, probation will need to assess the address before approving it. Where that’s not an option, you’ll usually be referred to your local council’s housing team. The reality, though, is that demand is high, and some areas have long waiting lists or limited options. It can help to seek advice early, both from your probation officer and from specialist housing organisations who understand the extra barriers faced by people with criminal records.

---

Getting Back Into Work

Employment can play a huge role in reducing reoffending and rebuilding confidence — but it’s not always easy. Some employers are open to giving people a second chance, while others may require you to disclose your conviction depending on the role and when your record becomes “spent” under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act.

Start by checking whether your prison or probation team has links to employability programmes or organisations that support people with convictions. Some charities and training providers specialise in helping you write CVs, prepare for interviews, and understand your rights around disclosure. Even voluntary roles or short courses can help build confidence and show future employers that you’re working towards stability.

---

Looking After Your Mental Health

Release can bring unexpected emotions. Relief, anxiety, guilt, frustration — it’s a lot to process, especially if you’ve spent time away from loved ones, lost your job, or feel overwhelmed by the conditions attached to your release. It’s common for people to experience low mood or high stress in the weeks and months after leaving custody.

Support is available, both through prison healthcare teams before release and through the NHS or local mental health services afterwards. Don’t hesitate to speak to your probation officer if you’re struggling — they can refer you to specialist providers and peer support networks. You’re not expected to manage everything on your own.

---

Rebuilding Through Support Services

There are a number of services and organisations across England and Wales that can help you get back on track. These range from housing charities to employment schemes and counselling providers. For example:

• Probation Resettlement Teams – Help with housing, benefits, and licence-related support.
• National Careers Service – Free advice on finding work and training opportunities.
• Unlock – A charity supporting people with convictions, especially around employment and disclosure.
• Mind and Samaritans – Support for anyone struggling with mental health or coping after release.
• Citizens Advice – Guidance on benefits, debt, housing, and legal rights.

Using the right mix of services early on can stop small problems from spiralling into bigger ones and give you a better chance of success outside.

---

Reconnecting With Family and Community

One of the biggest hurdles for many people leaving prison is repairing relationships. Time inside can put strain on families, partners, and friendships — and in some cases, rebuilding trust takes time. Some probation teams and charities run family support programmes designed to help everyone adjust and talk openly about expectations after release.

Community reintegration isn’t just about avoiding prison — it’s about finding a sense of belonging again. Joining peer support groups, attending recovery meetings, or connecting with organisations like the CJS Hub can give you the tools and confidence to move forward.

---

Reintegration isn’t easy, and it rarely happens overnight. You might face setbacks — housing refusals, job rejections, strained relationships — but every small step forward matters. Understanding the support available, working closely with probation where needed, and accessing the right services gives you the best possible chance of building a stable, fulfilling life beyond custody.

The CJS Hub is here to guide you, your family, and your supporters through this process — helping you find practical answers and pointing you towards services that can really make a difference.