The Probation Service is responsible for the supervision of offenders released from prison on licence and also those serving community sentences. Probation services are facilitated through 35 Probation Trusts, located throughout England and Wales.
The Probation Service's responsibility in criminal proceedings
During the course of criminal proceedings, Probation Officers are responsible for the preparation of pre-sentence reports. These reports are of relevance not only at sentencing, but at any subsequent appeal, and also when an individual comes before the Parole Board).
The Probation Service's responsibilities with prisoners
In respect of individuals once they have been convicted, Probation Officers typically have the following involvement with prisoners:
- Assessing offenders;
- Giving evidence before the Parole Board as to the individual's progress in prison and whether or not he has sufficiently reduced his risk;
- Preparing the prisoner for release into the community;
- Co-ordinating offending behaviour programmes.
The Probation Service also manages approved premises or hostels for prisoners who are released on licence subject to a residence requirement.
For prisoners, the following Probation Officers are of particular relevance:
Home probation officers
"Home" probation officers are so named because they are based in the prisoner's home area. They are charged with the following duties:
- to work with the prisoner during and after sentence to assist in resettlement;
- to ensure licence conditions are implemented;
- to supervise the prisoner whilst he remains on licence;
- to act upon the victim of crime's concerns, if any;
- to make arrangements for the prisoner's release.
Seconded probation officers
The role of the seconded probation officer consists of the following:
- preparing risk assessments for prisoners being considered for early release;
- assisting prisoners with their sentence plan;
- running offending behaviour programmes.
Offender supervisor
The Offender Supervisor is the individual who delivers the day-to-day supervision of the prisoner through ensuring his sentence plan is executed.
Offender Manager
Usually this role is fulfilled by the offender's home probation officer.
Licence conditions
The Probation Service can also make recommendations as to licence conditions.
Judicial Review
Given that the Probation Service is a public body, decisions made by it can be challenged through judicial review.
Law and policy
Policy related to the Probation Service can be found here in the form or Probation Instructions. These policies apply to all Probation staff.
Judicial Review
Given that the Probation Service is a public body, decisions made by it can be challenged through judicial review.
Law and policy
Policy related to the Probation Service can be found here in the form or Probation Instructions. These policies apply to all Probation staff.
