The third sector has a long history of providing user-focused support and services to disadvantaged client groups and has the ability to engage with those often considered hardest to reach.
This publication gives a voice to a range of commentators from the third sector, academia, government and others operating in the criminal justice system. Their contributions highlight several reasons why prisons and probation services might benefit from volunteers and partnerships with the voluntary sector.
The report also explores how the reform and improvement agenda, involving an increased role for the third sector, could be taken forward. This includes an assessment of the current barriers and challenges to reform, particularly around procurement capacity, commissioning and a level playing field.