Responding to the Independent Sentencing Review

Responding to today’s publication of the Independent Sentencing Review, James Somerville, Head of Policy at NPC, said:

“While the headlines focus on violent offenders, today’s Sentencing Review sets out a sensible approach to short sentences. We know short sentences don’t work. Two thirds of the people who go to prison for less than six months reoffend within a year, because prisons rarely tackle the causes of crime.

We welcome the shift towards community sentences and rehabilitation. And it’s important to see the need to work in partnership with the impact sector highlighted.

When people do go to prison, we know that charities and the voluntary sector are key in reducing reoffending. They are independent from the state, which builds the trust necessary to bringing about change for individuals.

If this Government is serious about cutting reoffending, it needs to find a way to work effectively with frontline charities with deep roots in their local communities. Utilising their specific expertise is part of the strategic partnership between government and the impact sector that we urgently need.”