This blog has been written by three leaders of small specialist arts organisations that work in prisons in England and Wales. It shares their perspectives on the commissioning of prison-based arts projects through the Dynamic Purchasing System.

Our CEO, Anne Fox introduces the Clinks Annual report 21-22, picking out her highlights and reflections on the year.

It has been a tough year. Recovery from the pandemic and major changes to the criminal justice operating environment, including probation unification and proposed prison reforms, presented significant challenges. This blog will share 'key takeaways' from each speaker and panel featured.

Last month Clinks met with representatives from His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) and the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) for the quarterly commissioning engagement forum; a space which was created to provide regular discussion and feedback on commissioning rounds that will involve the voluntary sector working in criminal justice. See our earlier blog for more details on the purpose of these forums and how you can feed into them in the future.

Following an unstable period in leadership in Westminster, there have been further changes to the ministerial line-up at the Ministry of Justice. This blog post provides information about the new ministerial team, explains what steps Clinks has taken to reach out to the new Prisons Minister, and suggests how voluntary organisations can build relationships with decision makers. 

Organisations working in the criminal justice system can apply to receive free specialist coaching to improve their communications. This flexible and tailored coaching and peer support will be provided by communications specialist Gemma Buckland.

This guest blog summarises an evaluation of a relationship skills training model based on restorative practice principles that has been piloted at HMP Warren Hill.

Emma Kidger, Clinks Sector Support, Members and Networks Manager, reflects on the progress of a commissioning forum that Clinks established in partnership with MoJ and HMPPS in late 2021.

Christopher Stacey, Clinks Director of Support and Development, summarises which organisations will be providing prison family services across England and Wales from October this year.

Olivia Dehnavi, Clinks Senior Policy Officer, outlines how women's voluntary sector organisations can apply for grants for women's services as part of the Ministry of Justice's £24 million investment to support women in or at risk of contact with the criminal justice system.