Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 24
24
Reduced probation supervision for lower-risk offenders risks increasing reoffending without enhanced third-sector support.
Conclusion
HMPPS’s planned changes to the scope of the Probation Service are likely to reduce probation supervision for many offenders assessed as at a lower risk of harm and reoffending.55 Written evidence from the Prison Reform Trust highlighted that low risk individuals often have higher rates of identified need, including housing, mental health and drug treatment and financial support. It warned that if the needs of these individuals are not met, their risk profile could increase overtime, adding further pressure to the service.56 Probation practitioners can draw on contracted-out Commissioned Rehabilitative Services (CRS) to support offenders’ rehabilitative needs. HMPPS’s plans are likely therefore to require increased support from its CRS contracts and other third sector organisations.57