East of England’s probation services have been rated as “requires improvement” in an independent report published today (Thursday).
His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Probation says it found there are “insufficient measures to keep the public safe” at the service.
There were also concerns raised about “chronic staffing issues” which is considered a wider problem across the sector.
Martin Jones, Chief Inspector of Probation, said: “While the commitment and dedication of leaders and staff across the region was found to be unwavering, this commitment and dedication is not amounting to sufficient measures in keeping the public safe or encouraging people on probation to change.”
Inspectors also highlighted the East of England region was not effectively assessing the potential harm perpetrated by men against women and children.
This was noted as an area that requires “urgent attention” with the “complex and inefficient” information sharing arrangement among the issues raised.
On a more positive note, the quality of work with victims of a violent or sexual offence was considered “outstanding”.
Leaders across the East of England were also praised for overseeing “excellent work” integrating people on probation into worthwhile roles.
This led to permanent employment in some cases.
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Today’s report about the East of England’s services comes six weeks after the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough probation service was deemed ‘inadequate’.
In its response to the latest findings, the Ministry of Justice says recruitment is going to be among its priorities for the sector.
A spokesperson said: “The new Government inherited a criminal justice system in crisis which has put huge strain on probation staff whose hard work, despite these challenges, is rightfully recognised by inspectors.
“One first step is the recruitment of 1,000 probation officers nationwide to combat staff shortages and reduce workloads so that the Probation Service can better protect the public and cut crime.”
The East of England probation service covers Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, Bedfordshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Northamptonshire, Norfolk, and Suffolk.
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