Recommendations & Conclusions
42 items
1
Conclusion
3rd Report: Coronavirus (COVID-19): The…
Not Addressed
The Covid-19 pandemic poses an urgent threat to public health and safety. It is an unprecedented situation that has required an immediate response by the National Probation Service, CRCs and all other services providers along with the NHS to save lives. We praise the probation service and wider stakeholders for …
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The Covid-19 pandemic poses an urgent threat to public health and safety. It is an unprecedented situation that has required an immediate response by the National Probation Service, CRCs and all other services providers along with the NHS to save lives. We praise the probation service and wider stakeholders for the vital work they are doing to respond to the pandemic, support their offenders and protect the public.(Paragraph 3) Changes to Probation during Covid-19
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Government response AI summary
The government acknowledges the committee's praise for the probation service's pandemic response but then, instead of responding to that, expresses its own concern about inconsistencies in probation delivery models and makes a recommendation to itself regarding guidance and monitoring.
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Ministry of Justice
2
Recommendation
3rd Report: Coronavirus (COVID-19): The…
Accepted
The Committee recognise that Covid-19 has required an immediate and unprecedented response and praise the probation staff and offenders for adapting to the current situation. The Committee are aware that the NPS and CRCs may differ in their models of delivery, however we are concerned to hear reports that inconsistencies …
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The Committee recognise that Covid-19 has required an immediate and unprecedented response and praise the probation staff and offenders for adapting to the current situation. The Committee are aware that the NPS and CRCs may differ in their models of delivery, however we are concerned to hear reports that inconsistencies in practice may be hindering staff safety and causing concern to individuals trying to adhere to their sentence. We recommend that the Ministry of Justice and HMPPS set out what guidance has been issued to CRCs, and how they are monitoring the models being delivered in different CRCs.The Committee recognise that Covid-19 has required an immediate and unprecedented response and praise the probation staff and offenders for adapting to the current situation. The Committee are aware that the NPS and CRCs may differ in their models of delivery, however we are concerned to hear reports that inconsistencies in practice may be hindering staff safety and causing concern to individuals trying to adhere to their sentence. We recommend that the Ministry of Justice and HMPPS set out what guidance has been issued to CRCs, and how they are monitoring the models being delivered in different CRCs. (Paragraph 19) Key Issues relating to Covid-19
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Government response AI summary
The government states that guidance to CRCs was issued through Exceptional Delivery Models and Cabinet Office Public Procurement Notices, and HMPPS is monitoring delivery via a comprehensive recovery dashboard, a National Recovery Board, 12 regional recovery boards, and specific recovery workstreams.
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Ministry of Justice
3
Conclusion
3rd Report: Coronavirus (COVID-19): The…
Accepted in Part
The model of probation delivery has changed substantially in the weeks since the introduction of the UK lockdown, particularly the way in which case-management supervision is delivered. Additionally, other areas such as unpaid work and interventions have stopped. We recognise that these measures have been necessary, but we are concerned …
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The model of probation delivery has changed substantially in the weeks since the introduction of the UK lockdown, particularly the way in which case-management supervision is delivered. Additionally, other areas such as unpaid work and interventions have stopped. We recognise that these measures have been necessary, but we are concerned about increasing backlogs as a result of Covid-19—for example in unpaid work—and it is unclear how the Ministry and HMPPS intend to address these backlogs.
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Government response AI summary
The government acknowledges backlogs in unpaid work and accredited programmes due to social distancing, noting that case lists may continue to grow. It is considering options for unpaid work and has developed and received approval for an Alternative Delivery Format (ADF) to maximise programme delivery, …
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Ministry of Justice
4
Recommendation
3rd Report: Coronavirus (COVID-19): The…
Accepted in Part
We recommend that the Ministry of Justice and HMPPS set out how the probation service intends to address the backlogs that have built up over the past three months. Additionally, we recommend that the Ministry and HMPPS set out how they will ensure that all individuals under probation supervision will …
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We recommend that the Ministry of Justice and HMPPS set out how the probation service intends to address the backlogs that have built up over the past three months. Additionally, we recommend that the Ministry and HMPPS set out how they will ensure that all individuals under probation supervision will be able to complete their sentence requirements, such as behaviour programmes.
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Government response AI summary
The government details steps to address probation backlogs and ensure sentence completion, including considering options for unpaid work (UPW) and developing an approved Alternative Delivery Format (ADF) for accredited programmes. It also issued guidance to allow completion of commenced programme modules via one-to-one delivery, despite …
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Ministry of Justice
5
Recommendation
3rd Report: Coronavirus (COVID-19): The…
Accepted
The Committee are pleased to see the commitment from HMPPS to learn from the current model of delivery. We recommend that HMPPS update the Committee on Coronavirus (COVID-19): The impact on probation systems 23 progress of this piece of work, setting out how learning will be shared.The Committee are pleased …
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The Committee are pleased to see the commitment from HMPPS to learn from the current model of delivery. We recommend that HMPPS update the Committee on Coronavirus (COVID-19): The impact on probation systems 23 progress of this piece of work, setting out how learning will be shared.The Committee are pleased to see the commitment from HMPPS to learn from the current model of delivery. We recommend that HMPPS update the Committee on progress of this piece of work, setting out how learning will be shared.
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Government response AI summary
HMPPS has developed a programme to capture and share learning from the Covid-19 response, integrating data, staff and service-user perspectives, and international practice, with a focus on remote supervision, alternative delivery models, and staff wellbeing. The government commits to updating the Committee on the progress …
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Ministry of Justice
6
Recommendation
3rd Report: Coronavirus (COVID-19): The…
Accepted
Staff shortages and increased workloads within the probation service preceded the Covid-19 outbreak. Whilst the Committee recognise that Covid-19 means that some areas of work have stopped, it is clear that staff workloads are still extremely high, and staff morale and wellbeing are of significant concern within the probation service. …
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Staff shortages and increased workloads within the probation service preceded the Covid-19 outbreak. Whilst the Committee recognise that Covid-19 means that some areas of work have stopped, it is clear that staff workloads are still extremely high, and staff morale and wellbeing are of significant concern within the probation service. In addition to these conditions, staff are also going through the second major reform programme to take place in just five years, and the impact of this uncertainty cannot be overestimated. We recommend that the Ministry of Justice and HMPPS set out what existing and additional measures are in place during this time to support staff wellbeing.Staff shortages and increased workloads within the probation service preceded the Covid-19 outbreak. Whilst the Committee recognise that Covid-19 means that some areas of work have stopped, it is clear that staff workloads are still extremely high, and staff morale and wellbeing are of significant concern within the probation service. In addition to these conditions, staff are also going through the second major reform programme to take place in just five years, and the impact of this uncertainty cannot be overestimated. We recommend that the Ministry of Justice and HMPPS set out what existing and additional measures are in place during this time to support staff wellbeing..
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Government response AI summary
The government accepts the recommendation, committing to increase recruitment with a minimum of 1000 new probation officers in training by January 2021. It details a Covid-19 Staff Wellbeing Plan, a forthcoming wellbeing toolkit, and a comprehensive wellbeing action plan in the Probation Workforce Strategy, including …
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Ministry of Justice
7
Recommendation
3rd Report: Coronavirus (COVID-19): The…
Accepted
At the best of times, release from prison can be a difficult time for many, however, Covid-19 has created a very different environment for those released from prison to enter. Service provision in the community has changed substantially and it is important that individuals released from prison continue to receive …
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At the best of times, release from prison can be a difficult time for many, however, Covid-19 has created a very different environment for those released from prison to enter. Service provision in the community has changed substantially and it is important that individuals released from prison continue to receive the support necessary to enable them to reintegrate into society and stop the cycle of offending. Whilst we welcome the Ministry’s commitment to work with the third sector, we are unclear what specific additional support has been put in place for those released from custody during this time and recommend that the Ministry of Justice and HMPPS set out what additional measures they have put in place to support prison leavers.e At the best of times, release from prison can be a difficult time for many, however, Covid-19 has created a very different environment for those released from prison to enter. Service provision in the community has changed substantially and it is important that individuals released from prison continue to receive the support necessary to enable them to reintegrate into society and stop the cycle of offending. Whilst we welcome the Ministry’s commitment to work with the third sector, we are unclear what specific additional support has been put in place for those released from custody during this time and recommend that the Ministry of Justice and HMPPS set out what additional measures they have put in place to support prison leavers..
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Government response AI summary
The government details several measures put in place for prison leavers during Covid-19, including providing phones, discharge packs, requiring Through the Gate providers to focus on resettlement needs, and establishing Homelessness Prevention Taskforces.
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Ministry of Justice
8
Recommendation
3rd Report: Coronavirus (COVID-19): The…
Deferred
The Committee are pleased to hear about the work the Ministry has done with the DWP to make Universal Credit more accessible to those leaving prisons. We also welcome the increase in the Subsistence Grant for those who are leaving prison early under the End of Custody Temporary Release scheme, …
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The Committee are pleased to hear about the work the Ministry has done with the DWP to make Universal Credit more accessible to those leaving prisons. We also welcome the increase in the Subsistence Grant for those who are leaving prison early under the End of Custody Temporary Release scheme, however, we also consider those leaving prison through the ordinary course of events to be in need of additional provision during this unprecedented time. We recommend that the Ministry review 24 Coronavirus (COVID-19): The impact on probation systems the Discharge Grant, and reconsider increasing it during the period of coronavirus, particularly considering that all those released from prison will face challenges adapting to the current environment, and vulnerability may be heightened by the fact that many support services have reduced in capacity and changed delivery models.The Committee are pleased to hear about the work the Ministry has done with the DWP to make Universal Credit more accessible to those leaving prisons. We also welcome the increase in the Subsistence Grant for those who are leaving prison early under the End of Custody Temporary Release scheme, however, we also consider those leaving prison through the ordinary course of events to be in need of additional provision during this unprecedented time. We recommend that the Ministry review the Discharge Grant, and reconsider increasing it during the period of coronavirus, particularly considering that all those released from prison will face challenges adapting to the current environment, and vulnerability may be heightened by the fact that many support services have reduced in capacity and changed delivery models.
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Government response AI summary
The government has not decided to increase the Discharge Grant during the pandemic, stating that options for its future are being considered and that updates on this work will be provided.
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Ministry of Justice
9
Recommendation
3rd Report: Coronavirus (COVID-19): The…
Accepted in Part
Accommodation is an important resettlement need for prison leavers, and we welcome the work that the Ministry of Justice and HMPPS have done during the pandemic to ensure that prison leavers have the best access to accommodation as possible. We are also pleased to hear that scheme to support individuals …
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Accommodation is an important resettlement need for prison leavers, and we welcome the work that the Ministry of Justice and HMPPS have done during the pandemic to ensure that prison leavers have the best access to accommodation as possible. We are also pleased to hear that scheme to support individuals leaving prison has been extended to the 31 July. Given that Covid-19 is an ongoing situation, we recommend that the Ministry of Justice and HMPPS continue to keep this scheme under review to ensure that the housing needs or prison leavers continue to be met. Additionally, we recommend that the Ministry set out their what work is being done in the longer term to address the housing needs of prisoners on release from custody and prevent homelessness.Accommodation is an important resettlement need for prison leavers, and we welcome the work that the Ministry of Justice and HMPPS have done during the pandemic to ensure that prison leavers have the best access to accommodation as possible. We are also pleased to hear that scheme to support individuals leaving prison has been extended to the 31 July. Given that Covid-19 is an ongoing situation, we recommend that the Ministry of Justice and HMPPS continue to keep this scheme under review to ensure that the housing needs or prison leavers continue to be met. Additionally, we recommend that the Ministry set out their what work is being done in the longer term to address the housing needs of prisoners on release from custody and prevent homelessness. (Paragraph 56) Probation Reform Programme
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Government response AI summary
The government states the Covid-19 Accommodation Upon Release Scheme was extended until 31st August and will be kept under review. For the longer term, HMPPS is considering how to continue the work of the Homelessness Prevention Taskforces and use lessons learned to develop improvements in …
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Ministry of Justice
10
Recommendation
3rd Report: Coronavirus (COVID-19): The…
Accepted
The probation service has been in a continual state of reform and uncertainty for the past five years, and is now adapting to the challenges presented by Covid-19. Whilst the announcement is a welcome one, the new model is expected to go live in the summer of 2021 and the …
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The probation service has been in a continual state of reform and uncertainty for the past five years, and is now adapting to the challenges presented by Covid-19. Whilst the announcement is a welcome one, the new model is expected to go live in the summer of 2021 and the Committee recognise that this is a huge task to undertake in a year, particularly given the current circumstances. We recommend that the Ministry of Justice set out a detailed timeframe for the transition of the probation service to the new model. Additionally, the Ministry of Justice should keep the Committee updated on progress, including any potential delays to the transition. The probation service has been in a continual state of reform and uncertainty for the past five years, and is now adapting to the challenges presented by Covid-19. Whilst Coronavirus (COVID-19): The impact on probation systems 25 the announcement is a welcome one, the new model is expected to go live in the summer of 2021 and the Committee recognise that this is a huge task to undertake in a year, particularly given the current circumstances. We recommend that the Ministry of Justice set out a detailed timeframe for the transition of the probation service to the new model. Additionally, the Ministry of Justice should keep the Committee updated on progress, including any potential delays to the transition. (Paragraph 61) 26 Coronavirus (COVID-19): The impact on probation systems
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Government response AI summary
The government states that Annex 1 provides the detailed timeline for the probation service transition and outlines ongoing oversight by an independent challenge panel and the IPA, with a further IPA review in late September 2020.
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Ministry of Justice
1
Conclusion
4th Report - Coronavirus (Covid-19): Th…
Acknowledged
The Covid-19 pandemic poses an urgent threat to public health and safety. It is an unprecedented situation that has required an immediate response by the prison service to protect the NHS and save lives. We praise the Prison Service and wider stakeholders for the vital work they are doing to …
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The Covid-19 pandemic poses an urgent threat to public health and safety. It is an unprecedented situation that has required an immediate response by the prison service to protect the NHS and save lives. We praise the Prison Service and wider stakeholders for the vital work they are doing to respond to the pandemic and protect those in their care and the public. (Paragraph 3) Prison Regime Changes
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Government response AI summary
The government thanked the committee for its support and affirmed its continued efforts to address the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic in custody and the community.
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Ministry of Justice
2
Conclusion
4th Report - Coronavirus (Covid-19): Th…
Acknowledged
The Committee recognise the necessity of the measures introduced to minimise the spread of the virus and save lives and commend staff and prisoners for adapting to these changes. However, we do not believe that the current regime is sustainable in the long term and are concerned about the effect …
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The Committee recognise the necessity of the measures introduced to minimise the spread of the virus and save lives and commend staff and prisoners for adapting to these changes. However, we do not believe that the current regime is sustainable in the long term and are concerned about the effect this may have on the wellbeing and rehabilitation of individual prisoners.
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Government response AI summary
The government acknowledges concerns about the long-term sustainability and impact of the prison regime, outlining its National Framework for easing restrictions and detailing mitigations like increased testing and maintaining purposeful activity where safe.
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Ministry of Justice
3
Recommendation
4th Report - Coronavirus (Covid-19): Th…
Not Addressed
We are not clear as to why there is such wide variance across the estate in type of regime and time out of cell. We agree with the Independent Monitoring Board and recommend that the Ministry of Justice set out clear expectations of the minimum time out of cell and …
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We are not clear as to why there is such wide variance across the estate in type of regime and time out of cell. We agree with the Independent Monitoring Board and recommend that the Ministry of Justice set out clear expectations of the minimum time out of cell and activity to be provided at each phase of recovery. This is not currently clearly set out in the COVID-19: National Framework for Prisons and Services.
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Government response AI summary
The government explains the reasons for regime variance due to the pandemic and states that the current minimum out-of-cell time ranges from 1–3 hours, but it does not commit to setting out clear expectations for minimum time out of cell and activity for each phase …
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Ministry of Justice
4
Conclusion
4th Report - Coronavirus (Covid-19): Th…
Accepted
The Committee recognise the severity of the current regime in prisons and commend both staff and prisoners for responding and adapting to current circumstances. We are pleased to hear reports that the prison population have been largely compliant with changes made, but we share concerns about the potential long-term impact …
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The Committee recognise the severity of the current regime in prisons and commend both staff and prisoners for responding and adapting to current circumstances. We are pleased to hear reports that the prison population have been largely compliant with changes made, but we share concerns about the potential long-term impact current restrictions will have on the health and wellbeing of prisoners themselves. We are unclear what additional support is being provided to those struggling with their mental health. Before the Covid-19 pandemic, prisons already faced alarmingly increased levels of self-harm and the current situation in prisons may serve to make that situation worse.
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Government response AI summary
HMPPS states they have restarted elements of the regime and are supporting mental health by implementing new training, reviewing healthcare, rolling out a revised ACCT framework, and implementing the OMiC model to support prisoners at risk of self-harm.
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Ministry of Justice
5
Recommendation
4th Report - Coronavirus (Covid-19): Th…
Accepted
We recommend that the Ministry of Justice set out what additional mental health support is available for prisoners and what their long-term plan is to mitigate the effect lockdown may have on the mental health of prisoners should prisons remain in this current phase for a prolonged period.
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We recommend that the Ministry of Justice set out what additional mental health support is available for prisoners and what their long-term plan is to mitigate the effect lockdown may have on the mental health of prisoners should prisons remain in this current phase for a prolonged period.
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Government response AI summary
The government details a range of existing products, guidance, and regime mitigations, including a self-help tool and family contact support, that have been implemented to support prisoners' mental health throughout the pandemic and will remain in place until Spring 2021.
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Ministry of Justice
6
Conclusion
4th Report - Coronavirus (Covid-19): Th…
Accepted
It is vital that prisoners are able to maintain contact with family and friends, particularly at such an uncertain time. Family contact is essential to a prisoner’s wellbeing and resettlement, and we welcome measures taken to ensure that prisoners are able to maintain contact with family. We welcome the decision …
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It is vital that prisoners are able to maintain contact with family and friends, particularly at such an uncertain time. Family contact is essential to a prisoner’s wellbeing and resettlement, and we welcome measures taken to ensure that prisoners are able to maintain contact with family. We welcome the decision to provide 900 locked mobile handsets, and we are pleased to note that the trial of secure video calls at HMP Berwyn was successful and will now be available at 10 establishments.
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Government response AI summary
HMPPS fully recognises the importance of family contact and has continued to roll out video calling to over 110 prisons, with facilities expected in every establishment by the end of the year, in addition to providing extra PIN telephone credit and mobile PIN phones.
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Ministry of Justice
7
Recommendation
4th Report - Coronavirus (Covid-19): Th…
Accepted in Part
While the secure video calling service is a temporary measure implemented in direct response to the changes across the estate resulting from Covid-19, the Committee 28 Coronavirus (Covid-19): The impact on prisons believe there is scope for this service to be developed in the long-term and rolled out further across …
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While the secure video calling service is a temporary measure implemented in direct response to the changes across the estate resulting from Covid-19, the Committee 28 Coronavirus (Covid-19): The impact on prisons believe there is scope for this service to be developed in the long-term and rolled out further across the prison estate. We recommend that the Ministry of Justice make the secure video calling service available permanently across the rest of the prison estate. The Ministry of Justice should provide costings for such extension of this service and set out a timeframe for when this service will be expanded beyond the 10 establishments due to receive it, and how establishments will be prioritised.
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Government response AI summary
The government states that video calling is available in over 110 prisons and is expected in all establishments by year-end, addressing the expansion. However, it is still exploring the longer-term sustainability of the service and does not provide costings.
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Ministry of Justice
8
Recommendation
4th Report - Coronavirus (Covid-19): Th…
Not Addressed
Given that prisons have been in a state of lockdown for 15 weeks, we are pleased to hear that Exceptional Delivery Models for stage 3 are being developed and that there are hopes to relax the regime in the next few weeks. We recommend that the Ministry and HMPPS keep …
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Given that prisons have been in a state of lockdown for 15 weeks, we are pleased to hear that Exceptional Delivery Models for stage 3 are being developed and that there are hopes to relax the regime in the next few weeks. We recommend that the Ministry and HMPPS keep the Committee updated on their progress, including what prisons will be transitioning and in what timeframe. (Paragraph 35) Prison Population Management
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Government response AI summary
The government describes the development, review, and amendments made to Exceptional Delivery Models (EDMs) and ongoing work with Public Health, but does not commit to keeping the Committee updated on specific prisons transitioning or their timeframes.
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Ministry of Justice
9
Conclusion
4th Report - Coronavirus (Covid-19): Th…
Accepted
We are pleased to hear that more than 98% of the prison estate now has cohorting in place. This appears to have been an effective strategy for containing the spread of the virus and protect the lives of staff and prisoners. The Committee thank all of the staff who have …
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We are pleased to hear that more than 98% of the prison estate now has cohorting in place. This appears to have been an effective strategy for containing the spread of the virus and protect the lives of staff and prisoners. The Committee thank all of the staff who have worked to implement this measure.
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Government response AI summary
The government confirms that 100% of prisons have fully implemented cohorting strategies, including compartmentalisation, and credits these existing measures with preventing explosive outbreaks and protecting lives.
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Ministry of Justice
10
Recommendation
4th Report - Coronavirus (Covid-19): Th…
Accepted
The Committee welcome the Government’s decision to temporarily release pregnant women and women in prison with their children, whenever it is safe to do so. The Committee recognise that this cohort of women require specialist support in the community, but in the 14 weeks since the announcement was made, only …
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The Committee welcome the Government’s decision to temporarily release pregnant women and women in prison with their children, whenever it is safe to do so. The Committee recognise that this cohort of women require specialist support in the community, but in the 14 weeks since the announcement was made, only 23 women out of around 70 eligible, have been released from custody. We ask the Ministry to explain why that is.
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Government response AI summary
The government provides a detailed explanation for the number of temporary releases, citing the need for case-by-case risk assessments for public protection, some prisoners' unwillingness or ineligibility, and the requirement for safe accommodation and support post-release. It states 54 prisoners had been released by the …
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Ministry of Justice
11
Recommendation
4th Report - Coronavirus (Covid-19): Th…
Accepted in Part
We ask the Government to set out how many prisoners were actively considered for release under the scheme and the principal reasons why just over 5 per cent were in fact released early.
Government response AI summary
The government states that 262 prisoners were released under the ECTR scheme and provides detailed reasons for the lower-than-anticipated numbers, citing public protection and stringent risk assessments. However, it does not specify how many prisoners were actively considered for release.
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Ministry of Justice
12
Recommendation
4th Report - Coronavirus (Covid-19): Th…
Accepted
It is not clear what impact increased court activity will have on the prison population, and how MoJ and HMPPS intend to manage any potential influx as a result of increased court activity. The Committee are pleased to note that work has already begun on understanding the effects of renewed …
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It is not clear what impact increased court activity will have on the prison population, and how MoJ and HMPPS intend to manage any potential influx as a result of increased court activity. The Committee are pleased to note that work has already begun on understanding the effects of renewed court activity; the MoJ should update the Committee on the progress of that work, and how they will manage any influxes in prison population that may result from increased court activity.
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Government response AI summary
The government accepted the recommendation, publishing updated prison population projections on November 26, 2020, which factored in increased police numbers. They also outlined ongoing assessments, investment plans, and measures to manage potential prison population influxes resulting from increased court activity.
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Ministry of Justice
13
Recommendation
4th Report - Coronavirus (Covid-19): Th…
Accepted in Part
We welcome the sourcing and installation of temporary units to increase headroom across the prison estate. We welcome the announcement by the Chancellor of the Exchequer in his Summer Statement on 8 July that £60m is being made available to provide 1,000 temporary places. We recognise that this is ongoing …
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We welcome the sourcing and installation of temporary units to increase headroom across the prison estate. We welcome the announcement by the Chancellor of the Exchequer in his Summer Statement on 8 July that £60m is being made available to provide 1,000 temporary places. We recognise that this is ongoing work, but the Ministry of Justice should set out when they intend all 2,000 temporary units to be installed and when these units will be operational. Additionally, the Ministry should provide costings for the 2,000 temporary units, and set out how they intend to re- deploy these cells in the long-term. (Paragraph 68) Coronavirus (Covid-19): The impact on prisons 29 Children and young people in the custodial estate during COVID-19
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Government response AI summary
The government reports that 1,150 temporary units are installed and aims to deliver 1,000 more Rapid Deployment Cells in the 2021/22 financial year. It states it is considering the long-term use of these units but does not provide costings for the full 2,000 units or …
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Ministry of Justice
14
Recommendation
4th Report - Coronavirus (Covid-19): Th…
Acknowledged
We recommend, however, that the Government investigate the reasons behind the relatively high level of remand into custody and explain the reasons behind that, particularly given the pressures on the custodial estate during the coronavirus outbreak.
Government response AI summary
The government acknowledges the increased proportion of youth in custody on remand and attributes it to factors like a lower overall population and more serious offenses. It notes that courts are clearing backlogs and prioritizing youth cases.
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Ministry of Justice
15
Recommendation
4th Report - Coronavirus (Covid-19): Th…
Accepted in Part
We recommend that the MoJ and Youth Custody Service set out how they have responded to the crisis in the context of the children’s estate and how the specific needs of children have been considered. It is also unclear why there is such a disparity in the regimes provided across …
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We recommend that the MoJ and Youth Custody Service set out how they have responded to the crisis in the context of the children’s estate and how the specific needs of children have been considered. It is also unclear why there is such a disparity in the regimes provided across the youth estate; the MoJ and Youth Custody Service should set out what is being done to address disparities and ensure that all children in the estate receive equivalent provision.
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Government response AI summary
The government detailed the Youth Custody Service's response to the crisis, including the development of Exceptional Delivery Models, re-commencement of face-to-face education and visits, and a focus on essential activities for children. However, it did not explicitly set out what is being done to address …
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Ministry of Justice
16
Recommendation
4th Report - Coronavirus (Covid-19): Th…
Accepted
We are concerned that there does not appear to be a sufficiently clear, separate plan on how the youth custodial estate will transition out of the current lockdown phase. We agree that plans need to be flexible enough to accommodate different circumstances and situation of prisons, but we do not …
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We are concerned that there does not appear to be a sufficiently clear, separate plan on how the youth custodial estate will transition out of the current lockdown phase. We agree that plans need to be flexible enough to accommodate different circumstances and situation of prisons, but we do not believe that this commitment is reflected in the National Framework for Prisons and Services. We are disappointed that children and young people appear as a “footnote” in the National Framework and believe that the specific needs of this cohort should be clearly articulated and believe that the specific needs of this cohort should be clearly articulated. The Committee recommend that the MoJ and Youth Custody Service set out in greater detail specifically how the children’s estate will transition out of the current phase of lockdown, bearing in mind our current understanding of the relative risks from Covid-19 in the youth custody estate and those in the adult estate. (Paragraph 82) 30 Coronavirus (Covid-19): The impact on prisons
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Government response AI summary
The government states its National Framework is flexible for the youth estate and the Youth Custody Service has developed specific Exceptional Delivery Models, prioritised education, and commissioned research with workshops scheduled to implement learning from COVID-19 experiences into future regimes.
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Ministry of Justice
1
Conclusion
7th Report: Coronavirus (COVID-19): the…
Accepted
Legal professionals have adapted impressively quickly to working from home and holding and attending hearings remotely, but this can be difficult. Lord Burnett of Maldon, the Lord Chief Justice, told us that “the quality of the kit matters a great deal. If you are doing this sort of encounter with …
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Legal professionals have adapted impressively quickly to working from home and holding and attending hearings remotely, but this can be difficult. Lord Burnett of Maldon, the Lord Chief Justice, told us that “the quality of the kit matters a great deal. If you are doing this sort of encounter with a laptop, you are hunched over it, you are cramped and you do not have room for paper. If you are doing a full video hearing, you need two screens: one you can put papers on and the other so you can see people.”
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Government response AI summary
The government acknowledged the committee's conclusion, detailing its innovative adaptations including the national rollout of Cloud Video Platform (CVP) and providing guidance for remote hearings. They stated a commitment to continue improving court technology and monitoring the impact of video and audio use, alongside increasing …
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Ministry of Justice
2
Recommendation
7th Report: Coronavirus (COVID-19): the…
Not Addressed
There have been positive developments in providing online solutions to providing court services, but pending full roll out of HMCTS’s cloud video platform, we recommend that the Ministry of Justice sets out the steps it is taking to ensure that lay parties to hearings have access to the technology they …
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There have been positive developments in providing online solutions to providing court services, but pending full roll out of HMCTS’s cloud video platform, we recommend that the Ministry of Justice sets out the steps it is taking to ensure that lay parties to hearings have access to the technology they need so that they can communicate well, and confidentially, with their lawyers. We also recommend that the Ministry of Justice reviews how well remote hearings have worked for all participants in all jurisdictions before rolling them out further.
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Government response AI summary
The government's response does not address the recommendation to set out steps for lay parties' access to technology for remote hearings or to review the effectiveness of remote hearings for all participants before further rollout. Instead, it discusses reviews related to legal aid practitioners and …
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Ministry of Justice
3
Conclusion
7th Report: Coronavirus (COVID-19): the…
Acknowledged
Publicly funded legal services providers were already under stress before coronavirus.
Government response AI summary
The government acknowledges the challenges faced by legal service providers by detailing a range of support measures introduced during the pandemic, including the Self-Employed Income Support Scheme and various loan schemes, and commits to continuing to monitor the legal aid market.
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Ministry of Justice
4
Recommendation
7th Report: Coronavirus (COVID-19): the…
Not Addressed
It is important that the legal professions properly represent the society they serve, not least because they form a large part of the pool from which the Judiciary is drawn. The MOJ should set out what it will do to make sure that coronavirus restrictions on the justice system do …
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It is important that the legal professions properly represent the society they serve, not least because they form a large part of the pool from which the Judiciary is drawn. The MOJ should set out what it will do to make sure that coronavirus restrictions on the justice system do not disproportionately affect the incomes of Black, Asian and minority ethnic or state-educated legal professionals, nor reduce their ability or desire to enter and work in the courts and tribunals system.
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Government response AI summary
The government's response discusses its consideration of the Law Society's proposals for Standard Monthly Payments for Legal Aid providers and their reasons for not adopting them, failing to address the recommendation regarding the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 restrictions on BAME and state-educated legal professionals.
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Ministry of Justice
5
Conclusion
7th Report: Coronavirus (COVID-19): the…
Not Addressed
Newly qualified barristers face particular pressure.
Government response AI summary
The government's response discusses support for Law Centres and not-for-profit providers, including emergency funding and new services, but does not address the observation regarding newly qualified barristers facing particular pressure.
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Ministry of Justice
6
Conclusion
7th Report: Coronavirus (COVID-19): the…
Acknowledged
Small high street firms are particularly at risk from the effects of coronavirus restrictions.
Government response AI summary
The government implicitly acknowledges the risks to small high street firms by detailing ongoing engagement with legal aid providers, revised guidance, and committing to an independently led review of the criminal legal aid market and broader reviews of civil legal aid to ensure market sustainability.
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Ministry of Justice
7
Conclusion
7th Report: Coronavirus (COVID-19): the…
Accepted
Law centres and other not-for-profit legal advice providers are also at great risk.
Government response AI summary
The government agreed with the committee's observation, stating it secured £5.4 million in emergency grant funding for not-for-profit legal providers and is working with partners to deliver new national-level services, with a further £2 million to be awarded to smaller organizations this autumn.
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Ministry of Justice
8
Conclusion
7th Report: Coronavirus (COVID-19): the…
Not Addressed
The furlough scheme has been very useful, with both solicitors’ firms and barristers’ chambers using it to reduce staff costs. We heard that the loan schemes were less helpful, particularly for small high street firms.
Government response AI summary
The government acknowledges that it introduced an unprecedented package of support measures during the pandemic, listing the Self-Employed Income Support Scheme, Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme, and Bounce Back Loan Scheme as available to legal practitioners and firms, but does not …
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Ministry of Justice
9
Conclusion
7th Report: Coronavirus (COVID-19): the…
Accepted
The Legal Aid Agency has made changes to help the legal professions. For example, it has made it easier to claim interim and hardship payments, aligned some fees for remote work with those for in-person work, and halted pursuit of outstanding debts owed to the Legal Aid Agency. Amanda Pinto …
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The Legal Aid Agency has made changes to help the legal professions. For example, it has made it easier to claim interim and hardship payments, aligned some fees for remote work with those for in-person work, and halted pursuit of outstanding debts owed to the Legal Aid Agency. Amanda Pinto told us “I am happy to say that the CPS and the Legal Aid Agency have done sterling work in reducing the backlog in paying their fees.” (Paragraph 29) 16 Coronavirus (COVID-19): the impact on the legal professions in England and Wales
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Government response AI summary
The government acknowledged the committee's observation by detailing various measures introduced by the Ministry of Justice and Legal Aid Agency to support legal aid providers during the pandemic, including expanding hardship payments, pausing debt pursuit, suspending sanctions, and injecting up to £51 million into criminal …
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Ministry of Justice
10
Conclusion
7th Report: Coronavirus (COVID-19): the…
Accepted
The support provided by the Government is welcome, but it cannot compensate for the significant drop-off in the amount of work being done and remove the risk of a collapse in legal services providers. (Paragraph 32) The way ahead
Government response AI summary
The government acknowledged the committee's conclusion by detailing existing financial support measures available to the legal sector, such as SEISS, various loan schemes, and VAT deferral. They defended eligibility criteria for some schemes and committed to continuing to monitor the legal aid market to understand …
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Ministry of Justice
11
Conclusion
7th Report: Coronavirus (COVID-19): the…
Acknowledged
It is important that the legal professions are in good shape to deal with the increase in demand for legal advice and representation that is on the horizon.
Government response AI summary
The government acknowledges the importance of a resilient legal profession by detailing a range of support measures introduced during the pandemic and committing to continuing to monitor the legal aid market as demand increases, taking necessary action to maintain access to justice.
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Ministry of Justice
12
Recommendation
7th Report: Coronavirus (COVID-19): the…
Not Addressed
We recommend that the Ministry of Justice considers the Bar Council’s proposals for using alternative evidence (other than tax returns) for bringing new barristers and returning practitioners within the remit of the Self-Employed Income Support Scheme and that it report back to us on whether it decides to adopt the …
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We recommend that the Ministry of Justice considers the Bar Council’s proposals for using alternative evidence (other than tax returns) for bringing new barristers and returning practitioners within the remit of the Self-Employed Income Support Scheme and that it report back to us on whether it decides to adopt the proposals and, if not, provide the reasons for that decision.
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Government response AI summary
The government details its existing support measures and the reasons for the Self-Employed Income Support Scheme's eligibility criteria, but it does not commit to considering the Bar Council's proposals for alternative evidence or reporting back on them.
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Ministry of Justice
13
Recommendation
7th Report: Coronavirus (COVID-19): the…
Rejected
We recommend that the Ministry of Justice considers the Law Society’s detailed proposals for payment and repayment of monthly payments (to solicitors firms and not-for-profit providers) and that the Ministry of Justice reports back to us on whether it decides to adopt the proposals and, if not, provide the reasons …
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We recommend that the Ministry of Justice considers the Law Society’s detailed proposals for payment and repayment of monthly payments (to solicitors firms and not-for-profit providers) and that the Ministry of Justice reports back to us on whether it decides to adopt the proposals and, if not, provide the reasons for that decision.
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Government response AI summary
The government considered the Law Society's proposals for monthly payments but did not adopt them, citing that the Standard Monthly Payment would provide inconsistent and limited support unrelated to overall financial circumstances. They advised providers to discuss individual circumstances with the Legal Aid Agency and …
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Ministry of Justice
14
Recommendation
7th Report: Coronavirus (COVID-19): the…
Accepted
We recommend that the Ministry of Justice considers further grants for law centres and other not-for-profit legal services providers that are at risk of collapse. The Ministry of Justice should report back to us with its decision and provide its reasons if it decides not to provide such grants, and …
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We recommend that the Ministry of Justice considers further grants for law centres and other not-for-profit legal services providers that are at risk of collapse. The Ministry of Justice should report back to us with its decision and provide its reasons if it decides not to provide such grants, and state what provision it will make for users of the centres that cease operations.
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Government response AI summary
The government accepted the recommendation, stating it has already secured £5.4 million in emergency grant funding for not-for-profit legal providers and plans to award a further £2 million to smaller organizations this autumn. They also outlined ongoing work with partners to deliver new national-level services.
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Ministry of Justice
15
Recommendation
7th Report: Coronavirus (COVID-19): the…
Rejected
On 23 June, we asked Robert Buckland about business rates relief, and he suggested that his requests to the Treasury were unlikely to be fulfilled but that he was looking for other imaginative solutions. The Ministry of Justice should consider how it can help those self-employed practitioners whose profits are …
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On 23 June, we asked Robert Buckland about business rates relief, and he suggested that his requests to the Treasury were unlikely to be fulfilled but that he was looking for other imaginative solutions. The Ministry of Justice should consider how it can help those self-employed practitioners whose profits are just above the £50,000 threshold and how it can help legal services providers with their business rates, and, if it decides to do neither, should provide us with its reasons for those decisions.
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Government response AI summary
The government explains its rationale for the Self-Employed Income Support Scheme's £50,000 profit threshold and details existing business and employment support packages for legal firms not eligible for business rates relief, implicitly declining to consider new, targeted assistance as recommended.
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Ministry of Justice
16
Recommendation
7th Report: Coronavirus (COVID-19): the…
Accepted
We urge the Ministry of Justice and the Legal Aid Agency to continue to be creative as to how legal aid is administered so that the legal professions are not further damaged by inflexible processes and contractual requirements on top of the problems arising directly from the coronavirus crisis. (Paragraph …
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We urge the Ministry of Justice and the Legal Aid Agency to continue to be creative as to how legal aid is administered so that the legal professions are not further damaged by inflexible processes and contractual requirements on top of the problems arising directly from the coronavirus crisis. (Paragraph 42) Coronavirus (COVID-19): the impact on the legal professions in England and Wales 17
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Government response AI summary
The government accepted the recommendation, stating it will continue to work closely with the Legal Aid Agency to ensure a flexible and supportive approach, building on existing measures like bi-monthly meetings, revised guidance, and ongoing engagement with representative bodies. They also noted future reviews, including …
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Ministry of Justice