Clinks Light Lunch | Issue 949 | 11 September 2026

Light lunch

 

In this issue...

Clinks has published an Impact Report for Quarter 1 2026/27, highlighting a strong start to the year, supporting and connecting the voluntary sector across criminal justice system. Clinks provided 190 one-to-one support sessions, delivered eight events reaching 443 attendees from 208 organisations, shared 22 funding opportunities, and welcomed 20 new member applications. 

The report showcases strengthened regional engagement, growing policy influence on major justice reforms, expanded support for smaller organisations, and work to tackle stigma affecting families of people in prison. 

Read the full report here

Clinks has published a new blog exploring why reducing the number of women in prison should be the result of long-term justice reform, not a short-term response to prison overcrowding, highlighting the need for greater investment in gender-responsive community alternatives and specialist support services. The blog calls for a whole-system approach that expands community-based solutions, reduces unnecessary remand and recall, and reserves custody for the most serious cases, so that fewer women need prison in the first place.

Read the blog here

Join us for the launch of a new evidence review by Dr Sophie King-Hill, Associate Professor at the University of Birmingham, exploring the relationship between masculinity and the criminal justice system [14 September | 11:00 - 12:00 | online | free]. The webinar will explore how ideas about masculinity can influence offending behaviour, vulnerability, mental health and engagement with support services, including the influence of online spaces and harmful gender narratives.

The session will also consider how gender-informed and trauma-informed approaches can strengthen prevention, engagement and rehabilitation, with practical recommendations for policymakers, practitioners and voluntary organisations.

Find out more and book here

We have now restarted our RR3 Small Organisations Network. For the first time ever, we are opening up attendance beyond members of our network to give you a taster of what membership will feel like. Join us at our upcoming network meeting to hear from Catch22 on the main governance barriers to securing statutory funding and meet our new RR3 Small Organisations Seat Holders [14 September | 15:30 - 16:45 | online | free].

We are keen to hear from small organisations about examples of best practice, how implementation of the Sentencing Act has affected your organisation, and any challenges you would like our seat holders to raise at the next RR3 Quarterly meeting at the end of September.

Find out more and book here

Join Clinks for an evidence-gathering roundtable to help shape our collective response to the Ministry of Justice consultation on introducing independent statutory regulation for probation practitioners [16 September | 10:00 - 11:30 | online | free].

The session will gather voluntary sector views on areas including maintaining registration, professional competence and development, professional standards and a code of ethics, fitness to practise processes and the potential introduction of a protected title.

Find out more and book here

Are you new to working or volunteering in prisons, or looking to increase your understanding of the prison system? Join our three-hour training session for voluntary sector staff and volunteers, covering the prison environment, staffing structures and departments, prison procedures and current challenges [17 September | 10:00 - 13:00 | online | from £95].

The session will also explore how voluntary sector staff can engage meaningfully and professionally with prisons while ensuring safe and responsible ways of working. Places are limited to 20 participants.

Find out more and book here

Join the NCJAA and Royal Literary Fund for a practical workshop with professional writer Heidi Williamson, exploring how to tell the story of your organisation or project’s impact in a compelling, human and structured way [17 September | 10:00 - 12:30 | online | free]. The session will cover defining impact, presenting evidence and turning evaluation data into effective narratives to strengthen funding applications and communications.

The workshop is open to eligible Clinks members working or volunteering in small and specialist organisations across our thematic networks, as well as independent or freelance arts practitioners.

Find out more and book here

Join us for our London Area Engagement Criminal Justice Forum, bringing together voluntary sector organisations working across the criminal justice system [28 September | 10:00 - 11:30 | online | free]. Hear updates on our area engagement and policy work, alongside HMPPS representatives who will share how they work across London in practice.

The forum is an opportunity to discuss local priorities, strengthen engagement between partners and the voluntary sector, share good practice and discuss challenges organisations are facing in delivering criminal justice services.

Find out more and book here

Join the Clinks Families Network for a session exploring the value of shared knowledge, research and lived experience in building better support for children and families affected by the imprisonment of a family member [29 September | 10:00 - 12:00 | online | free]. Professor Kevin Woods and Dr Stephanie Scott will discuss children affected by parental imprisonment, the importance of training prison staff on the impact imprisonment has on families, and new research exploring a whole system approach to support.

The forum is open to Families Network members.

Find out more and book here

MEMBER FOCUS: The Sew and Sews Cornwall CIC

The Sew and Sews Cornwall CIC provides education, skills training and wellbeing activities through industrial sewing machining for people who may face barriers to learning, employment and wider opportunities.

They work with organisations supporting people in recovery, those who are insecurely housed or living in supported accommodation, and people with convictions. Through practical and creative learning, participants can build sewing skills, confidence and wellbeing in a supportive environment.

Find out more here

Charity Finance Group is encouraging charities to get involved in Gift Aid Awareness Day on [1 October], helping raise awareness of the value of Gift Aid and the difference it can make to charitable organisations.

A free Gift Aid Awareness Day toolkit is available to help organisations promote the campaign, alongside opportunities to support the Back the Future of Gift Aid campaign and share case studies showing the impact of Gift Aid. Charity Finance Group is also hosting a free webinar [1 October | 11:00 - 12:00 | online]

Find out more here

The Howard League has published a blog explaining recent changes to the Sentencing Act 2026 and what they mean for people in prison. The article outlines how the new progression model was intended to work, examines newly announced exclusions from earlier release provisions and considers the potential implications for prison capacity and the wider criminal justice system. 

Read the blog here.

Advance has announced a partnership with Davis Polk and the LSE Legal Advice Centre to provide free legal advice for women experiencing domestic abuse. The Domestic Abuse Family Law Clinic offers support on issues including non-molestation orders, child contact arrangements, divorce proceedings, enforcement of court orders and navigating family court processes. Women with no recourse to public funds and limited access to legal aid are prioritised for support through the clinic. 

Read more here.

Pact has published a blog explaining why it coordinated a joint sector response to proposals allowing family visits to be restricted as a disciplinary sanction in prisons. Written by Andy Keen-Downs CBE, the blog argues that family relationships are a key factor in rehabilitation and should not be used as punishment. It also welcomes confirmation that visits involving children under 18 will be exempt from the new measures, while calling for visit restrictions to be used only in exceptional circumstances. The joint letter was supported by organisations including Clinks, Prison Reform Trust, Howard League for Penal Reform, Nacro, Unlock, POPS and Birth Companions. 

Read the blog here.

Anawim is marking its 40th anniversary with its "Fabulous 40th" celebration, bringing together supporters from across the organisation's history for an evening of entertainment and fundraising on [13 November | 19:00 | New Irish Centre, Kings Heath, Birmingham | £43+].

The event will feature plenty of entertainment, with a headline set from a TV comedian, dancing to tunes from one of Birmingham’s best DJs and lots more, including a huge raffle, with prizes worth over £2,500.

Learn more here

Clean Break and Brixton House are presenting the world premiere of Baby, a new play by Gurpreet Kaur Bhatti that explores motherhood, survival and the lasting impact of imprisonment and separation. Directed by Milli Bhatia, the production shines a light on the experiences of women facing disadvantage and exclusion, themes central to Clean Break's work, with showings throughout October [8 October - 31 October | Brixton House, London].

Learn more here

Do you support clients facing homelessness? Society Matters are offering a course [16 September | 9:00 - 16:00 | online | £139+VAT] to help you learn how to navigate homelessness applications, understand legal duties, and support clients through the process while challenging incorrect decisions.

This course is ideal for frontline advisers, housing professionals, prison and probation staff, support workers, social prescribers, local authority staff, charities and community organisations. The course includes real-life case studies, quizzes and practical exercises to help participants apply the knowledge they learn.

This course is CPD accredited. All learners will receive their CPD certificate with 7 points on completion of the course.

Learn more here

CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM: Updated licence conditions policy framework

The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) and HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) updated the Licence conditions policy framework, which sets out how prison and probation staff apply and manage licence conditions for people released from custody.

The update introduces presumptive licence conditions, revises the wording of standard licence conditions, adds a requirement for passport details to be disclosed, and provides guidance on the use of standard, additional and bespoke licence conditions.

Learn more here

CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM: Martin Jones reappointed as His Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Probation

The MoJ and HM Inspectorate of Probation announced the reappointment of Martin Jones as His Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Probation for a second three-year term from March 2027 to April 2030.

Read the full announcement here

CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM: Intensive Supervision Courts Statistics: July 2023 to March 2026

The MoJ published a report on the progress of its Intensive Supervision Courts pilot. The report covers sentencing volumes, demographics, identified support needs, compliance, breaches and completion rates for people diverted from short custodial sentences into intensive community-based supervision and treatment programmes, finding that 369 orders were issued between July 2023 and March 2026 and that mental health and substance misuse were among the most common needs.

Read the full report here

CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM: Occupational Health and Employee Assistance Policy Framework

The MoJ and HMPPS published new guidance setting out how occupational health and employee assistance services should support staff wellbeing across their organisations.

The policy framework explains the support available to employees, including occupational health referrals and employee assistance services, and outlines the responsibilities of managers and other stakeholders in promoting health, wellbeing and confidentiality at work.

Read the full report here

CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM: Tribunals statistics quarterly: April to June 2026

The MoJ published quarterly tribunal statistics covering the volume and types of cases received, disposed of and outstanding between April and June 2026. This publication also includes data on HM Courts & Tribunals Service (HMCTS) Gender Recognition Certificate applications and grants, tribunal adjournments, postponements and sitting days, as well as statistics on detained immigration appeals and the Employment Appeal Tribunal.

Read the full report here

CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM: HMI Prisons responds to government plans to increase prison spaces

The HM Inspectorate of Prisons has responded to the government's plans to increase prison capacity and manage prison population pressures. Charlie Taylor, Chief Inspector of Prisons, warned that despite planned releases and additional prison spaces, the prison population is expected to remain exceptionally high, with overcrowding continuing to undermine living conditions, access to education and work, and safety across the estate. The statement also welcomes plans to end imprisonment for public protection (IPP) sentences, while stressing the need for a careful approach that balances public safety with appropriate support for those released. 

Read the full response here.

CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM: Health Bill: MHRA reforms - impact assessments

The The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) and the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) published impact assessments on reforms to MHRA information-sharing powers and regulatory processes. The assessments outline proposals that intend to make it easier for the MHRA to share information with UK and international health bodies and government departments, and to speed up updates to medicines and medical devices regulation, with the aim of improving patient safety and access to treatments.

Read the impact assessments here

NON-MEMBER’S EVENT: The Strength Within Counselling's Production of "It Felt Empty"

The Strength Within Counselling is putting on a production of Lucy Kirkwood's "It Felt Empty" on Anti-Slavery Day [18 October | 17:00 - 18:00 | Etcetera Theatre, Camden | from £12].

The play explores themes of detention, exploitation, survival, identity, resilience, victimhood and responsibility, and presents a meaningful connection with the work being done across the criminal justice system.

Register to attend here

FUNDING: Triangle Trust funding for work with young women in the criminal justice system

The Triangle Trust’s second 2026 funding round has now opened, supporting projects working with young women aged 17-30 who are already in contact with the criminal justice system. Funding is available for holistic support, including help with housing, employment and family relationships, as well as pre-release, through-the-gate support and support for mothers before and after a custodial sentence. Grants of between £50,000 and £100,000 are available for projects lasting 18 months to three years. 

Expressions of Interest must be submitted by [15 October | 14:00]

Find out more and apply here

FUNDING: Charles Hayward Foundation Social & Criminal Justice grants

The Charles Hayward Foundation is accepting applications to its Social & Criminal Justice funding programme, supporting projects that prevent people entering the criminal justice system and help those in contact with it rebuild their lives. Funding priorities include preventative and diversionary work with young people, rehabilitation and resettlement support, maintaining family relationships, mentoring, pathways to employment and alternatives to custody for women and young people. Grants of £15,000 to £25,000 per year are available for projects lasting one to three years. 

UK registered charities with an annual income between £350,000 and £4 million can apply. The next application deadline is [18 September]. 

Find out more and apply here

FUNDING: New economic justice funding for London organisations

City Bridge Foundation is launching its new Communities Building Economic Change fund, offering core and flexible funding of up to £450,000 over five years. The fund is aimed at small and medium-sized, community-rooted organisations with an annual income between £50,000 and £1.5 million, whose work tackles economic injustice and benefits communities in London. Funding priorities include securing access to essentials such as housing, food and decent work, building understanding of economic inequality, and giving communities greater power over decisions that affect them. 

Full funding guidance will be published on [14 September], followed by a webinar [15 September | 12:00 - 13:00 | online] and applications opening on [22 September]. The deadline to apply is [3 November]. 

Find out more here

PUBLICATION: Prison Reform Trust updates guidance on the Sentencing Act

The Prison Reform Trust has published an updated version of its Sentencing Act 2026 information sheet, explaining recent developments including changes to the earned progression model, release arrangements, Home Detention Curfew eligibility, recall provisions, licence conditions and reforms to IPP licences. The guidance reflects recent government announcements introducing further exclusions from earlier release provisions and revised implementation dates. 

Read the guidance here.

OPPORTUNITY: Revolving Doors' Research Projects on Recall

Revolving Doors are currently conducting two research projects for HMPPS about women’s experiences of remand and women’s experiences of recall. They are looking to speak to women who have been recalled and/or remanded to custody in the past 18 months about their views and experiences to inform changes to support women receive in custody and upon release. 

If you are would be interested in taking part or are working with someone who might be, please contact Head of Evidence & Impact Lauren Bennett at lauren.bennett@revolving-doors.org.uk for more information.

OPPORTUNITY: Donations to Working Chance doubled through Big Give campaign

Working Chance is encouraging supporters to take part in the upcoming Big Give Women and Girls Campaign, which will run from [6-13 October 2026]. During the campaign, all donations made through the campaign page will be matched, doubling their impact. Working Chance says demand for its services is increasing, with a waiting list of women seeking support to access employment after contact with the criminal justice system. Supporters can sign up now to receive a reminder when the matched-funding campaign opens. 

Find out more here.

Family Support Worker with Phoenix Futures [£29383, SE28 0EB, Full Time]; CFO Evolution Justice Services Support Worker in Custody with The Growth Company [£30000, HMP Humber, Full Time]; Community Keyworker (Part time) - Hampshire with ADVANCE (Advocacy and Non-Violence Community Education) [£26040 to £29760, Basingstoke, Havant and the full Hampshire region, Part Time]; Prison Facilitator - HMP Gartree with Shannon Trust [£29264, HMP Gartree, Full Time]; Sessional Community Keyworker - London with ADVANCE (Advocacy and Non-Violence Community Education) [£28000 to £32000, Hammersmith, Finsbury Park or Stratford, Part Time]; Women's Centre Coordinator with ADVANCE (Advocacy and Non-Violence Community Education) [£28000 to £32000, Finsbury Park, Full Time]; Diversion Keyworker with ADVANCE (Advocacy and Non-Violence Community Education) [£28000 to £32000, Finsbury Park, Full Time]; Programmes Facilitator with Change, grow, live (CGL) [£28557 to £32802, HMP Erlestoke, Full Time]; Recovery Coordinator with Change, grow, live (CGL) [£28557 to £32802, HMP Channings Wood, Full Time]; Through the Gate Coordinator with Change, grow, live (CGL) [£28557 to £32802, HMP Channings Wood, Full Time].

For more information about these vacancies, and many more, click here

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EXTRA INFORMATION:

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