“A problem-solving approach works better than punishment”: Revolving Doors responds to Government expansion of Intensive Supervision Courts
The Government has announced £9million of extra funding for Intensive Supervision Courts, aiming to double the number of problem-solving courts which work with people caught in cycles of repeat offending, with a particular focus on women and those with problematic substance use.
Pavan Dhaliwal, Chief Executive of Revolving Doors, said:
“This is a promising sign, and something we have repeatedly called for, including making it a key ask in our recent advocacy work. Evidence, including our own Ministry of Justice-commissioned evaluation of the Intensive Supervision Court pilot, shows that a problem-solving approach works better than punishment without recognition of the root causes of crisis and crime. We are encouraged to see the Government recognise that people with unmet health and social needs are better off outside prison in the community getting the support they need to escape the revolving door of reoffending.As the Lord Chancellor David Lammy highlighted, trauma is a key factor – with the right approach, supported by ISCs, people can exit this vicious cycle and build happier, healthier lives in safer communities.”
We partnered with CFE Research to deliver the national Intensive Supervision Courts pilot programme process evaluation, leading research in two of the pilot sites, and providing the Ministry of Justice with the evidence to commit to ISC expansion. The Intensive Supervision Courts Expression of Interest encouraged areas to focus on low-level prolific offending, consistent with the case we made in meetings and briefings with senior officials.
