
Criminal justice and charities
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Charities and their funders are at the forefront of work to support people to support people to make changes, break cycles of reoffending and prevent crime.
But prisons are under intense pressure. They are getting more violent, staff numbers are down, and complaints about overcrowding are widespread. In the midst of all this, charities are struggling to access those in need.
Criminal justice charities must be better supported to fulfil their role supporting people in the justice system. Our beyond bars research explores how. We want to continue this research to develop practical policies, building on what we’ve learnt. Get in touch to learn how to be involved.
Key resources and commentary on criminal justice

Resources
Independent, Effective, Humane: Funding charities in the prison system
The latest piece of research in our Beyond Bars program shows that while funders may be worried about the situation in prisons they can fund charities who still have a significant impact and they should not be dissuaded or leave the sector.

Resources
How are charities accessing people in prison to deliver services?
People in prison need access to charities. But due to the nature of prisons charities find it hard to get access to prisoners. In this report we set out working with the system can help charities break down the barriers to access.


Blog
Charities in prisons: Relationships, incentives, and access
Researcher Theo Clay shares some early work from Criminal Justice Project. We have been speaking to around 30 charities to hear about their challenges, but also to shine a light on examples of prisons and charities working well together.
Latest updates


Blog
Taking a whole-system approach to criminal justice
Given the complexities in the criminal justice system, we must take a whole-system approach to reoffending. By focusing on overlooked and underfunded areas, we can plant the seeds for a fairer criminal justice system.

Resources
Levelling Up and social needs: An analysis of government’s progress
In this analysis, we investigate where Levelling Up money is going and how it compares with these priorities.
Drop us a line
Got a question, comment, or want to work with us on criminal justice? Get in touch with Theo Clay NPC’s Criminal Justice Lead.
Get in touch