HM Inspectorate of Probation

@hmiprobation.bsky.social

69 Followers 156 Following

HM Inspectorate of Probation is the independent inspector of youth justice and probation services in England and Wales.

Stoke-on-Trent Youth Justice Support Service. Overall rating: ‘Inadequate’. A quote from His Majesty Chief Inspector of Probation Martin Jones CBE, “While Stoke-on-Trent Youth Justice Support Service had the elements that should have enabled a high-quality service, including a well-resourced, multidisciplinary team that were committed and motivated to work with children and their families, concerningly, this was not currently translating into sufficient youth justice practice, and overall, the service was rated ‘Inadequate’.”
Text reads Annual Report, 2025-2026 with a quote ascribed to Chief Inspector of Probation, Martin Jones CBE which reads: “Our programmes continue to recognise committed, motivated practitioners working hard to achieve better outcomes for the people they manage, however, there is still much more to do to. I am pleased to have this opportunity to share the evidence that continues to underpin our call for urgent, focused action to protect the public, support victims, and give the Probation Service the foundations it needs to succeed.”
A quote about serious further offences which says Serious Further Offences (SFOs) are specified violent and sexual offences committed by people who were, or had very recently been, under probation supervision at the time of the offence. SFOs are relatively rare, but the impact on the victims and relatives is traumatic, enduring, and can be fatal. SFOs also impact on probation practitioners involved in these cases, potentially leading to feelings of shame and guilt, anxiety, and depression. When a supervised individual is charged with an SFO, a review is undertaken, usually by HM Prison and Probation Service , although HM Inspectorate of Probation may be called upon by the Justice Secretary to undertake an independent SFO review in high-profile cases. The stated aim of all SFO reviews is ‘to drive up continuous improvement’ . However, probation practitioners and managers have told us in surveys and interviews that the SFO review process can feel like an exercise of blame and shame. The overall objective of the research project was to better understand the issues of blame and learning following SFOs and to outline key lessons and strategies from other sectors.
A picture of Martin Jones (Chief Inspector of Probation) with a quote that reads Children at Peterborough YJS were supported by skilled practitioners who had high aspirations for them. There was a clear focus on helping children to recognise their potential, and staff actively worked with them to effectively support positive change.
Quote from Dr Robin Moore, Head of Data Analysis and Research about Artificial Intelligence in Probation, "AI tools provide opportunities to automate tasks and reduce workload, freeing up practitioners to focus upon the uniquely human aspects of their role, notably developing good relationships with people on probation. At the same time, as is set out in this paper, the introduction of AI into probation raises ethical, legal, and professional challenges. Attention needs to be given to risks and challenges in relation to (i) bias, discrimination and privacy, (ii) transparency and overreliance, and (iii) due process and accountability."
An inspection of Stonnall Road Approved Premises. Overall rating: 'Good'. A quote from HM Chief Inspector of Probation Martin Jones CBE, "Stonnall Road is delivering a good standard of service. There is a clear focus on rehabilitation, and the staff and managers have cultivated a respectful, inclusive environment where residents are supported to resettle into the community.”
A picture of Martin Jones, Chief Inspector of Probation with a quote about Crowley House Approved Premises. Overall rating: 'Good' "We found many strengths at Crowley House. Staff engaged well with residents and delivered high-quality rehabilitation work, and a range of well-developed interventions supported residents towards more independent living. By addressing some of the areas identified in this report, this service is well placed to build on its strengths and further improve outcomes for the women it supports." Martin Jones Martin Jones CBE HM Chief Inspector of Probation
Example of effectiveness: Supporting a victim of modern slavery and cuckooing. Graham, a 43-year-old male, was sentenced to a community order for theft. Initial contact revealed a number of safeguarding concerns, including modern slavery, mental health challenges, and housing vulnerability due to cuckooing, where his home was being exploited by criminal networks.
An example from our safeguarding adults on probation, effective practice guide. Barry presented with multiple safeguarding concerns, including mental health difficulties and a history of sexual exploitation, domestic abuse, and trauma. Barry also experienced gender dysphoria, which was an important consideration in understanding their needs and potential vulnerability.
Example of effectiveness: Craig, a 23-year-old male, was sentenced to a custodial sentence for supplying cannabis. His case presented significant safeguarding concerns, including vulnerability to coercion and exploitation through involvement with urban street gangs, financial exploitation, and contextual harm to others.
A quote that says effective practice focus week, safeguarding adults on probation. Adult safeguarding refers to the process of protecting an adults right to live safely, free from abuse and neglect. This is a statutory responsibility under the care act 2014.
A quote from Dr Robin Moore that says Having summarised the key developments in the academic research, it is shown how the evidence base for investing in leadership has never been stronger supporting staff engagement satisfaction performance and retention and how it promotes a focus upon the transformational leadership behaviours of building trust and acting with integrity, encouraging others, encouraging innovative thinking and coaching and developing people.
A picture of chief inspector of probation with a quote that says “Overall, we saw some examples of well managed cases, but some shortfalls remained, particularly in relation to case assessment. In too many cases, insufficient analysis of information, a lack of professional curiosity and limited liaison with other agencies to obtain a full picture of the person on probation undermined effective practice.”
Example of effectiveness: Transfer of MAPPA cases Sylvia received 84 months in custody for offences linked to modern slavery and was assessed as posing a high risk of serious harm. The case was initially managed at MAPPA Level 3, due to the seriousness, the complexity, the number of people involved and media interest. Sylvia was also a victim of domestic abuse and trauma-informed approaches were used.
MAPPA cases should be managed at the lowest level necessary to deliver an effective risk management plan.. While serious offences can make reduction challenging, keeping cases at too high a level unnecessarily can limit capacity. Equally, reducing too early can undermine risk management. Decisions must be based on clear evidence of progress and stability.
Effective multi-agency working at Level 2. Example of effectiveness: Effective use of multi-agency working at Level 2 Case example: Arnold, 33, received a six‑month custodial sentence for breaching a Sexual Harm Prevention Order. He had a history of non‑compliance, repeated breaches, and ongoing concerns about harmful sexual behaviour. Due to escalating risks and previous risk management plans proving ineffective, the case was managed at MAPPA Level 2.
Example of effectiveness: Effective use of multi-agency working at Level 1 The majority of MAPPA cases are managed at Level 1, where the lead agency delivers the risk management plan with multi‑agency support and information‑sharing. Although formal meetings are not required, effective collaboration between agencies such as police, probation, social care, housing, and health services remains essential.
Lee was sentenced to a 24‑month community order with a mental health treatment requirement after threatening to kill and assaulting an emergency worker. He had a diagnosis of paranoid schizophrenia. Before sentencing, court-based probation staff identified the complexity of the case and referred it to MAPPA Level 2 under Category 3.
Reflections from research. 1. Keep sight of core probation values and purpose 2. Maintain the appetite to learn and develop 3. Recognise the value of probation Professor Matthew Millings, Liverpool John Moores University
Bedfordshire Youth Justice Service (YJS). Overall rating: Requires improvement. A picture of the chief inspector of probation Martin Jones with a quote that says “Staff at Bedfordshire YJS consistently demonstrated a strong determination to support victims and help children achieve their full potential, however inconsistencies in practice have resulted in an overall rating of ‘Requires improvement’.”
A picture of Martin Jones who is the Chief Inspector of Probation followed by a quote from him that says the staff and management at Luton YJP were committed and motivated in supporting positive change for children and families. It was encouraging to see how the building of trusting relationships was prioritised." LA Martin Jones Martin Jones CBE HM Chief Inspector of Probation
A quote by Dr Robin Moore, Head of Research which says desistance theory supports approaches which are personalised and relational, aligning with the HLS emphasis on bespoke public service provision, built on human relationships that are flexible, responsive, and grounded in care. Attention needs to be given to facilitating supportive and bespoke co-produced approaches, creating continual learning environments, and maximising collaboration between local and national stakeholders.
A picture of Martin Jones, Chief Inspector of Probation with a quote that says “We were encouraged to find signs of increasing stability across the Yorkshire and the Humber region. However, longstanding issues with vacancies, sickness and attrition, combined with high levels of practitioner and middle manager inexperience, continued to undermine capacity and confidence.”
A picture of the chief inspector of probation, Martin Jones with a quite that says Dynamic Inspection of Public Protection in the East Midlands region. The region had a clear and sustained focus on improving resettlement which was encouraging. However, despite leaders and staff displaying a clear commitment to obtaining timely information from partner agencies, a significant barrier remained across the region which continued to undermine effective risk management." Martin Jones Martin Jones CBE HM Chief Inspector of Probation
A picture of the chief inspector of probation - Martin Jones with a quote that says we found a culture of reflection and transparency at Neath Port Talbot YJS, and practitioners and leaders were both passionate and committed to achieving positive outcomes. However, we found inconsistencies in the practice and oversight of casework to promote the safety of the child and the community.
Wandsworth Youth Justice Service (YJS). Overall rating: ‘Good’. A picture of the chief inspector of probation Martin Jones with a quote that says Practitioners at Wandsworth YJS were skilled and enthusiastic about their work delivering high-quality interventions.  With an increased focus on work with victims including greater consideration of victim safety, Wandsworth have what it takes to become an exceptional service, and I wish them the best on their journey.”
A picture of the chief inspector of probation - Martin Jones with a quote that says at Pennywell House we found a committed and capable staff team delivering a good service in challenging circumstances. Residents were treated with dignity and respect, and their relationships with staff were positive and purposeful.
A picture of the Chief Inspector of Probation Martin Jones with a quote that says 'At Weston AP, we saw a dedicated team working under significant pressure. Whislt the commitment of staff and managers was commendable, the situation was not sustainable and posed a risk to their healt and wellbeing. The basic elements of safety and dignity must be addressed urgently'.
Key take-aways · Delivery of effective SPO management oversight requires: an operational management structure that meets the complex challenges of the probation caseload and prioritises public protection. . An operational structure that enables SPOs to prioritise management oversight and ensures that responsibility for HR, performance, administration, and facilities management is shared effectively. · A national comprehensive induction and learning and development offer to support SPOs. . The Quality Development Officer role aligned to operational delivery.
Effective Practice Focus Week: Management oversight Example of effectiveness: This case demonstrates the benefits of effective communication and collaborative multi-agency work, in terms of the regular liaison with the police as part of case management. The practitioner was proactive in identifying concerns and sought consultation from management on how to move the case forward. They were creative in how they verified information and when the concerns were confirmed the practitioner followed up with appropriate action.
A quote card that says this case illustrates the importance of managers creating a culture where practitioners feel able to actively consult them on decisions and follow-up actions. It also highlights the importance of thinking holistically about risk to ensure appropriate decisions are taken and actions are followed up where there are safety concerns.
Effective Practice focus week. Today we are looking at the impact of a supportive manager who created a culture than enables professional curiosity and actively encourages this. Cody was sentenced to 27 months in prison for stalking and harassing his wife.
A quote card that says Effective Practice Focus Week, Management Oversight with a quote that says the role of the senior probation officer (SPO) and the delivery of management oversight are central to effective sentence management and court work in the Probation Service. The probation caseload is complex and challenging. It is therefore important that the teams delivering these key services in courts, prisons and the community are supported and that their work is overseen effectively.
A picture of the chief inspector of probation Martin Jones with a quote that says Plymouth Youth Justice Service have taken the time to truly understand the children they work with and are delivering strong operational activity with victims. I trust our recommendations will help the service flourish.
Don received a seven-month prison sentence for repeated shoplifting, linked to Class A drug addiction and underlying mental health needs. Despite attempts to engage him in treatment during licence supervision, he continued to disengage and reoffend, and his risk of serious harm was assessed as medium.
Reframing masculinity for young men and boys. A quote from Dr Robin Moore, Head of Research and Data Analysis, "“Many young men and boys within the criminal justice system have internalised damaging ideals that equate masculinity with control and aggression. Through understanding these issues, probation and youth justice practitioners can interpret behaviours accurately and address root causes rather than symptoms, challenging harmful narratives without alienating, and promoting positive identity development.”
Example of effectiveness: addressing barriers to professional curiosity Cody received a 27 month sentence for stalking and harassment of his wife. Although initially assessed as medium risk, his fixation on the victim and denial of abuse led to his risk being escalated and his case managed under MAPPA Level 2, meaning his case needed to be managed by multiple agencies.
A picture of chief inspector of probation Martin Jones with a quote that says while strategic public protection work had been strengthened, and we saw improvements since our last inspection, fewer than half the cases inspected sufficiently met our standards in three out of four key questions. A notable theme that ran throughout our findings was a lack of engagement with partner agencies, including police; and limited professional curiosity also continued to be a concern
Example of effectiveness: professional curiosity supporting resettlement As Karim approached release, his probation officer maintained regular contact via video calls, letters and a face-to-face visit, working closely with resettlement and custodial staff to keep communication consistent and effective.
An inspection of Victoria House Approved Premises. Overall rating: 'Good'. A quote from HM Chief Inspector of Probation Martin Jones CBE, ““The staff at Victoria House worked well together and leaders had fostered a supportive, collaborative atmosphere. A strong rehabilitative offer was in place and staff understood and responded well to the individual needs of residents.”
Using professional curiosity to blend risk and desistance Elaine was on a community order with a 10-day rehabilitation activity requirement for theft and had an extensive history of acquisitive crime. While substance use played a part, the underlying causes were linked to her vulnerabilities from a history of brain injury and mental health needs.
Effective Practice Focus Week: Professional Curiosity. “I’ve had nothing but help from these services and I’m in a much better place these days and trying to get my life back on track. And that’s because of all the help and support I’ve received through my probation officer and drug workers and other people they have signposted me to, which is helping my recovery big time.” – Person on probation.
A picture of Martin Jones with a quote that says while staff were committed and leadership had worked hard to create a positive and supportive culture, Westbourne House faces significant pressures. Difficulties in staffing and recruitment are placing immense pressure on the team, and I once again call on His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service to urgently complete the review of staffing, resourcing and recruitment procedures for APs.
A picture of Martin Jones with a quote that says since the launch of our Approved Premises inspection programme in 2025 we have sought to shine a light on the important, often underappreciated, work taking place in APs, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement. Alongside our inspection work, we hope this evidence based RAB, which identifies barriers and enablers of success, will assist in improving the work that APs do to protect the public and reintegrate people back into the community
A picture of Martin Jones, Chief Inspector of Probation with a quote that says Plas y Wern had a strong culture of collaboration and learning, and staff were committed to delivering a high-quality service. Residents told us they felt safe and spoke positively about the support they received.
An inspection of Bridgewood Approved Premises in Northampton. Overall rating: 'Requires improvement'. A quote from HM Chief Inspector of Probation Martin Jones CBE, “While we found committed staff who were working hard to support residents in challenging circumstances, the service was too reliant on the efforts of individual staff rather than being supported by strong systems and processes.”
A picture of Martin Jones, Chief Inspector of Probation with a quote that reads we found many elements of strong practice at Gloucestershire YJS. Where successful outcomes for children were observed, practitioners had taken a relational approach, taking the time to understand children’s needs and backgrounds. Unfortunately, there were inconsistencies in practice which resulted in an overall rating of requires improvement
Acquired Brain Injury: An invisible consequence of domestic abuse for women in the justice system. A quote from Dr Robin Moore, Head of Research and Data Analysis, "“There is an urgent need to embed brain injury awareness within gender-responsive, trauma-informed practices, accounting for the psychological and neurological effects of extensive trauma, and helping to ensure that women are not punished for the neurological consequences of violent acts against them.”
A picture of chief inspector of probation Martin Jones with a quote that says: : “Inspectors found public protection to be a central focus of the region. However, the work to keep people safe was not sufficient in enough of the cases inspected during this inspection. Several factors contributed towards gaps in public protection practice, including capacity and workload pressures, an inexperienced workforce, ineffective management oversight, and inconsistent systems for accessing and exchanging information with child social services."
Dynamic Inspection of Public Protection in the South Central region Quote from HM Chief Inspector of Probation Martin Jones, “There were some positive developments in the South Central region, however these were overshadowed by systemic challenges, rapid policy changes and inconsistent assurance mechanisms. Despite some good work, delays in multi-agency information sharing continued to undermine the region’s ability to deliver high-quality public protection work.
Barking and Dagenham Youth Justice Service (YJS). Overall rating: 'Good'. A picture of His Majesty’s Chief of Inspector of Probation, with a quote that says, “The practitioners at Barking & Dagenham YJS were skilled and motivated and have worked hard to improve its work with children since our last inspection in 2018. The strong focus on education, training, and employment has resulted in a service that is aspirational for its children.”
Card reads: Efficiency and resilience of the Probation Service This is followed by a quote ascribed to HM Chief Inspector of Probation, Martin Jones “I share the Committee's concern around the huge strain on probation and the critical need for urgent attention, at the most senior level, to ensure it has the staff, resources and focus it needs to protect the public and reduce reoffending.”