Publication of the HMI Probation report 2019

In response to the publication of the HMI Probation report, Nacro Chief Executive, Jacob Tas, said:
“As we anticipate government plans for probation reform, today’s report from the Chief Inspector of Probation, Dame Glenys Stacey, underlines the urgent need for a step change in the way that probation services are delivered across the country.

“Thousands of people are released from prison or are under probation supervision every month. For each one of them, there is an important window of opportunity to help them turn their back on a life of crime, make a fresh start, and in turn prevent further victims. This can only be achieved if resettlement planning starts from the moment a person is sentenced.

“Dame Glenys Stacey rightly warns that national, inter-departmental strategies are needed to provide accommodation and timely benefits payments, but it doesn’t stop there.  At Nacro, we work across the country with people with convictions, who often have complex needs, and support them to build positive and independent futures. We have seen first-hand the challenges people face as they try to re-join society, and we step in to help them overcome struggles including access to essential housing, health care, formal ID and, state benefits.

“We are hopeful that probation reform will address the issues that hinder services from changing lives and delivering the individualised support that people need.”