New Offender Behaviour Scheme Piloted

Prisons Minister David Hanson has announced the pilot of a new Compact outlining the level of behaviour expected from prisoners and offenders in the community.

Proposals for Offender Compacts, which require offenders to commit to rehabilitation or face the possibility of penalties, were first announced in the Ministry of Justice's Prison Policy Update paper in January. The document sets out that the community has a right to expect offenders to serve their sentences and repay the opportunities presented to them by not committing crime.

The new Compacts have been piloted in three prisons – HMP's Drake Hall and Shrewsbury, and YOI Brinsford - as well as West Mercia probation area, since July 21.

They emphasise that any advantages offenders receive must be earned through commitment, hard work and delivery against the aims of their sentence plans. This will complement and build upon the Incentives and Earned Privileges Scheme currently used by prisons.

David Hanson said:

"As well as punishing offenders through prison and community sentences, we also give support opportunities to turn away from crime through education and training.

"But this is not a one way street. Offenders need to know that as well as being given the opportunity of rehabilitation they also have responsibilities which they must meet.

"It is vital that the public understands and has confidence in the basis on which offenders, especially those in custody, are granted access to certain privileges. Such privileges can and will be taken away if behaviour fails to meet certain standards.

"These new proposals will not only require offenders to demonstrate basic compliance, as is currently the case, but will now call on them to show commitment beyond this. They will be given set objectives and could also be asked to make reparation to the community."

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