Empowering Change: The Vital Role of the Voluntary and Community Sector in Criminal Justice
London, December 6, 2024 – In a heartfelt and insightful keynote address at the Catch 22 Conference, a seasoned professional with over 45 years of experience in the Criminal Justice System (CJS) highlighted the transformative power and ongoing challenges of the Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS).
The speech, rich with personal reflections and professional insights, painted a vivid picture of the evolving role of VCS organizations in supporting and rehabilitating offenders.
A Journey Through Time: From Margins to Mainstream
John Wiseman, who began their career in the Probation Service in 1979 and now serves as Senior Coordinator with Circles South West (CSW), took the audience on a journey through the history of VCS involvement in the CJS. They reminisced about the early days when VCS contributions were minimal and often overlooked. It wasn’t until the implementation of the Crime and Disorder Act in 1998 that the landscape began to change, compelling Probation Services to collaborate with VCS organizations.
This collaboration was further solidified with the introduction of Drug Treatment and Testing Orders (DTTOs), which required engagement with VCS substance misuse agencies. The creation of the National Offender Management Service (NOMS) in 2004 marked another significant milestone, integrating VCS providers into the CJS and promoting a range of services across various sectors.
Circles South West: A Beacon of Hope
A significant portion of the address was dedicated to the work of Circles South West, a charity established in 2010 to prevent further victims of sexual abuse by reducing the risk of reoffending. The organization’s flagship initiative, Circles of Support and Accountability (CoSA), involves regular meetings between volunteers and offenders, providing both support and accountability. This initiative has been recognized for its positive impact, with a 2021 report by HMI Probation affirming its effectiveness.
Challenges and Criticisms: A Call for Ethical Partnerships
Despite the progress, the speaker did not shy away from addressing the current challenges faced by VCS organizations. They criticized the Dynamic Purchasing System for disadvantaging smaller VCS providers due to its complex requirements and called for a more collaborative approach. The speaker emphasized the need for ethical partnerships and mutual respect between large and small VCS organizations, urging stakeholders to recognize the expertise and local knowledge of smaller providers.
A Vision for the Future: Optimism and Determination
The keynote concluded with a call to action for the government, the Ministry of Justice, and VCS providers to continue pushing for progress. The speaker expressed optimism about the future, noting positive developments in government engagement with the sector. They challenged all stakeholders to work together to overcome existing barriers and ensure that effective and compassionate support is available to those in need.
A Personal Reflection: 45 Years of Service
The address was not just a professional reflection but a deeply personal one. The speaker’s journey from a Probation Officer in 1979 to a Senior Coordinator at CSW provided a unique perspective on the evolution of the VCS in the CJS. Their passion and dedication to the cause were evident, inspiring the audience to continue striving for a more inclusive and effective criminal justice system.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
As the conference attendees reflected on the keynote address, the message was clear: the VCS plays a crucial role in the CJS, and its contributions must be recognized and supported. The journey is far from over, but with continued collaboration and commitment, there is hope for a more just and compassionate system.
