A major report on sentencing does not appreciate the significant role councils play in managing risk and supporting offenders outside custody, the LGA has warned.
The Independent Sentencing Review’s final report also makes no reference to the expanded role councils could have – including in coordinating a pipeline of community payback opportunities.
“The Independent Sentencing Review has important implications for local authorities in England and Wales, particularly in how they support the criminal justice system and manage the social impacts of sentencing reforms,” writes Cllr Heather Kidd MBE, Chair of the LGA’s Safer and Stronger Communities Board, in a letter to Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood.
“We fully recognise the urgent need to reduce reoffending, relieve pressure on the prison estate, and ensure that sentencing contributes meaningfully to rehabilitation and public protection.
“However, we were disappointed the final report does not appear to fully reflect the evidence submitted by the LGA.
“We continue to believe that local government has a vital role to play in supporting a rehabilitative justice system – one that is responsive to local needs and built on strong partnerships between councils, probation services, the police and voluntary sector providers.
“Community safety partnerships, which already bring together these agencies, are well placed to support the delivery of the review’s ambitions, provided there is adequate investment and clarity around responsibilities.”