The latest views and discussion from Clinks staff and guest writers. We also use blogs to give short updates on our latest projects, as well as briefings on topics of interest to members.
State of the sector 2021 survey: why your response matters
We have launched this year's State of the sector survey. Help us build on last year's evidence and identify changes and challenges for the sector. Your answers will help us to advocate on your behalf and prioritise our work so that we can meet your needs.
The Community Sentence Treatment Requirements (CSTR) programme in action: Northamptonshire
Third and final blog in a series on the Community Sentence Treatment Requirements (CSTR) programme, this piece by Clinks and Nacro looks at the Northamptonshire CSTR site to learn how they became a CSTR site, their learnings, and how service users benefit from this change.
Grant funding to improve prison leavers’ outcomes - the Local Leadership and Integration Fund
London Development Officer Tiegan Mercer outlines details of the Local Leadership and Integration Fund – a Ministry of Justice grant funding scheme to support the development of locally-led pilots to improve outcomes for prison leavers.
An independent review of the probation Dynamic Framework
Richard Oldfield recommends that there should be a large-scale adoption of grants as the funding mechanism for some of the services; simplification of contracts; and a system which obliges large entities to include more specialised smaller organisations in their bids.
The Community Sentence Treatment Requirements (CSTR) programme in action: Plymouth
Second in a series of blogs on the Community Sentence Treatment Requirements (CSTR) programme, this blog by Clinks and Nacro looks at the Plymouth CSTR site to learn how they became a CSTR site, their learnings, and how service users benefit from this change.
Neurodiversity in the criminal justice system: A review of evidence
This blog by Policy Officer Noorjehan Piperdy explores the review of neurodiversity in the criminal justice system, published by the Criminal Justice Joint Inspectorates, alongside two service user reports published by KeyRing and User Voice.
What's New
Blogs
The Sentencing Bill
We set out the key clauses within the Sentencing Bill, laid before Parliament on 2 September. These include a new progression model, a presumption against short sentences and changes to community orders.
Publications
Problem-Solving Courts for Women
This evidence review provides an in-depth look at women’s problem solving courts (WPSC) which are endorsed by the Sentencing Review as an important component in preventing the unnecessary incarceration of women.
Dr Sarah Waite and Dr Alexandria Bradley review the evidence base – to which they are significant contributors – exploring the international context and covering the critical factors for success
Latest on X

The role is for a leader from an organisation focused on racially minoritised people, with expertise in service delivery, policy, advocacy, or related areas in criminal justice. Racial disparities are present at every CJS stage. This role ensures these voices are central in shaping policy to help address and eradicate them. Apply by Mon 18 Nov, 10am. More info: https://www.clinks.org/voluntary-community-sector/vacancies/15566 #CriminalJustice #RR3 #RacialEquity