Guidance

Early Release on Compassionate Grounds Policy Framework

Guidance on applying for the early release of a sentenced prisoner, child or young person on compassionate grounds.

• From: Ministry of Justice and HM Prison and Probation Service
• Published: 13 May 2022
• Last updated: 16 August 2023 — See all updates

Applies to England and Wales

Documents

Early Release on Compassionate Grounds Policy Framework

PDF, 239 KB, 16 pages

Annex A: Application for ercg due to health and/or social care needs

ODT, 32.1 KB

This file is in an OpenDocument format

Annex B: Application for ercg due to exceptional circumstances (non-medical related)

ODT, 26.7 KB

This file is in an OpenDocument format

Annex C: Transcript request

ODT, 7.06 KB

This file is in an OpenDocument format

Details

This Policy Framework sets out the criteria and process for making an application for Early Release on Compassionate Grounds (ERCG) for determinate and indeterminate sentenced prisoners, children and young people.

The Policy Framework combines and replaces Chapter 12 in PSO4700 and Chapter 12 in PSO6000. It covers:

• The eligibility criteria for the scheme
• Guidance for applications due to health/social care needs
• Guidance for non-medical related applications
• Refusal/approval of an application
• Release and recall processes
• Application forms

Published 13 May 2022
Last updated 16 August 2023 + show all updates

1. 16 August 2023

   Policy framework updated.

2. 13 May 2022

   First published.