The Government is planning to introduce “restriction zones” that will lock sexual and violent criminals into specific areas instead of excluding them from others
The change will be brought in to give victims the freedom to go anywhere else without the fear of meeting their offender
The Government says that while existing “exclusion zones” are a valuable tool to stop offenders from entering a location where their victim lives, new “restriction zones” go further and instead limit the movement of offenders, who are confined to an agreed area, allowing victims to travel anywhere else without fear of meeting their offender.
Probation Officers will conduct a detailed risk assessment and work hand-in-hand with victims on the creation of restriction zones, making sure zones prevent contact while giving survivors the maximum freedom to rebuild their lives.
Announcing the change after visiting charity Advance, which supports women and girls who have experienced trauma from domestic abuse to rebuild their lives in their communities, Minister for Victims and Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls Alex Davies-Jones said:
Through our Plan for Change, we’re putting victims first.
This move will strengthen safeguards for victims. I’ve heard firsthand how this innovative approach will give them the peace of mind they deserve and rebuild their lives without fear.
