Supporting Vulnerable Offenders at Custody and in Court
This update is for voluntary and community sector (VCS) organisations working with vulnerable offenders. It looks at the commissioning and provider arrangements for healthcare services in custodial and court settings and suggests how to strengthen pathways between custody and community services. Health inequalities within the offender population are high. Studies consistently show that those in contact with the criminal justice system are likely to experience poorer physical and mental health than the general population. These groups also require more support in relation to substance misuse issues, or have multiple support needs across these and other areas.
The briefing begins with an outline of the existing arrangements for the commissioning and delivery of services in custodial settings and at court. It looks at general healthcare services, mental healthcare and substance misuse services in police custody, courts, prisons and the secure youth estate. The briefing then looks at the changing landscape. It provides details of current and anticipated changes to these arrangements. It also considers how VCS organisations can link with these developments to increase the support available to offenders in custody or going through the criminal justice process.
It concludes by suggesting how VCS providers can engage with the new commissioning landscape, listing four key steps:
- Familiarise yourself with the emerging local commissioning landscape, including community and custodial-based services
- Strengthen partnership, making sure you know your landscape and promote your service
- Promote understanding of the needs of local service users among commissioners and criminal justice decision makers
- Build your case, demonstrating your proven track record.
The changes we outline have the potential to significantly improve the range of support available to those in contact with the criminal justice system. It is vital that VCS agencies are well prepared to influence these changes.
