How to Write a Parole Support Letter In The UK (With Example Letter)

A parole support letter can make a meaningful difference to someone seeking release from prison. When the Parole Board is assessing whether an individual is ready to reintegrate into society, one of the factors they often consider is whether that person has a strong support network in place. This is where friends, family members, employers, mentors, and community figures can play a vital role.

Writing a thoughtful, well-structured parole support letter shows the board that the individual is not alone. It demonstrates that upon release, the person has access to emotional, practical, and perhaps even financial support – all of which contribute to a successful reintegration. In this article, we’ll explain what a parole support letter is, when to write one, how to structure it, and provide a detailed example you can customise for your situation.

What is a Parole Support Letter?

A parole support letter is a written statement submitted to the Parole Board by someone who knows the prisoner personally. Its primary purpose is to vouch for the prisoner’s character, describe the positive changes they’ve made during their sentence, and outline the ways in which you’ll support them if they are granted parole.These letters aren’t just ‘nice to have’ they can form a powerful part of a prisoner’s parole application. They help build a fuller picture of the person beyond their conviction and help the Parole Board understand the individual’s chances of succeeding on the outside.

Support letters are particularly valuable because they come from a place of real human connection. They help answer key questions the Parole Board may be asking, such as:
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- Does this individual have a stable place to live?
- Will they have employment or meaningful activity?
- Is there a support network available to help them through challenges?
- Are they motivated to stay out of trouble?

When Should You Write a Parole Support Letter?

If someone you know is approaching a parole hearing, you may be asked to write a letter several months in advance. The parole process in the UK can be long and complex, and support letters should be submitted as part of the parole dossier. This dossier is prepared ahead of the hearing and may include reports from probation, prison staff, psychologists, and legal representatives.

The prisoner may ask you directly for a letter, or their solicitor or offender supervisor might reach out. In some cases, you may even decide to write one on your own initiative. If in doubt, speak to the prisoner’s legal representative or prison contact to find out how best to submit the letter.

Who Can Write a Parole Support Letter?

Anyone who knows the individual well and is willing to provide ongoing support can write a parole letter. This includes:

- Family members (e.g. parents, siblings, partners)
- Friends
- Employers or former colleagues
- Mentors or community leaders
- Religious figures
- Social workers or charity contacts

Ideally, the letter should come from someone who has known the prisoner both before and during their sentence, and who can speak to their growth and plans for the future.

Things To Include In A Parole Support Letter

A good support letter is not about pleading or overselling. It should be factual, clear, and supportive. Here are the essential elements you should include:

1. Your Identity and Relationship
Start the letter by introducing yourself and explaining your relationship with the prisoner. Be specific: how long you’ve known them, how you met, and in what capacity.

2. Acknowledge the Offence (When Appropriate)
While you don’t need to go into details, it’s useful to show that you’re aware of the offence and take it seriously. Avoid minimising or justifying the crime.

3. Positive Changes and Rehabilitation
Describe what changes you’ve seen in the prisoner’s behaviour, attitude, or mindset. Have they taken part in education, therapy, or restorative justice programmes? Do they express genuine remorse and a desire to change?

4. Practical Support You’ll Offer
This is the heart of the letter. The Parole Board wants to know what kind of support network the person has. Mention if you can provide housing, help them find a job, offer emotional guidance, or assist with reintegration tasks like GP registration and benefits applications.

5. Your Belief in Their Readiness
Make a clear and sincere statement of support. If you genuinely believe the individual is ready for release and will not reoffend, say so – and back it up with reasoning.

Tips For Writing A Strong Parole Letter

- Keep it concise but thorough (ideally 500–800 words)
- Avoid emotional language or exaggeration
- Use a respectful and professional tone
- Check spelling and grammar
- Include your contact information

Parole Support Letter Template

Below is an example letter you can tailor to your situation:

Dear Members of the Parole Board,

My name is [Your Full Name], and I am writing in support of [Prisoner’s Full Name], who is currently being considered for parole. I have known [First Name] for [X years] as their [relationship, e.g., brother, friend, employer].

Over the years, I have witnessed significant personal growth and maturity in [First Name]. While I am aware of the offence that led to their imprisonment, I believe that [he/she/they] has made considerable efforts to rehabilitate and reflect on past mistakes. [He/She/They] has taken part in [courses, education, or therapy programmes], and often speaks about wanting to make a positive contribution to society.

If granted parole, I am ready to provide practical and emotional support to help [First Name] successfully reintegrate. [He/She/They] will have a place to live at [address or general location], and I am committed to helping them find stable employment. I am also available to provide transport, help with appointments, and offer consistent guidance during the transition period.

I sincerely believe that [First Name] is ready to return to society and is unlikely to pose a risk to the public. I will continue to support [him/her/them] in staying focused, motivated, and law-abiding.

Thank you for taking the time to consider my letter.

Sincerely,  
[Your Full Name]  
[Your Contact Information]  
[Date]
  

Final Thoughts

Writing a parole support letter is a big responsibility, but also a powerful opportunity to help someone you care about take an important step forward. Your letter doesn’t need to be perfect it just needs to be honest, specific, and sincere.

If you're ever unsure what to include or how to phrase something, try to imagine yourself in the shoes of a Parole Board member. What would you want to know before making a decision about someone’s freedom? What would reassure you that this person is ready for the next chapter of their life?

Parole is not about forgetting the past, it's about showing that someone has the potential and the structure in place to build a better future. A strong, genuine support letter can help open that door.