The UK government has announced major changes to the probation service, meaning low-risk offenders, including sex offenders and domestic abusers, will no longer face close supervision or be required to complete rehabilitation courses.
Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood revealed the policy shift as part of efforts to prioritise resources for managing high-risk offenders, stating that the probation service was overburdened with an impossible workload. The reforms, however, raise serious concerns about public safety and the risk of reoffending.
13,000 Offenders to Have Rehabilitation Courses Cancelled
According to government figures, approximately 13,000 convicted criminals will no longer be required to complete court-ordered rehabilitation programmes. These courses, previously mandated as part of sentencing, were designed to tackle the root causes of criminal behaviour, particularly in cases of sexual offences and domestic abuse.
Mahmood admitted that thousands of these accredited courses had not been delivered in the three years leading up to March 2024 due to a backlog in the system. She argued that scrapping them entirely would allow probation officers to focus on high-risk offenders, ensuring that resources are allocated where the potential for harm is greatest.
We will ensure those offenders who pose a higher risk and who need to receive these courses will do so. This is it a decision I take lightly, but it is a decision to confront the reality of the challenges facing the probation service, Mahmood told officials.
Concerns Over Public Safety and Risk of Reoffending
Critics warn that removing mandatory rehabilitation for sex offenders and domestic abusers could have devastating consequences, potentially increasing the risk of reoffending. Under the new system, offenders will be assessed based on their perceived risk rather than the nature of their crimes, meaning some individuals convicted of serious offences may no longer be required to undergo behavioural intervention programmes.
When asked whether this would apply to sex offenders and domestic abusers, Mahmood confirmed that the new policy would be risk-based rather than offence-specific, stating:
The accredited course is all based on risk, and so where any offender, regardless of whether they are a sex offender or have a domestic abuse flag, it would all be based on risk of reoffending and risk of harm.â€
However, experts argue that domestic abusers and sex offenders often display a high likelihood of reoffending unless they receive specialist intervention and close supervision. With probation services already struggling to manage risk assessments effectively, this change could mean that dangerous individuals slip through the cracks.
Government Response and Probation Recruitment Plans
As part of the reforms, the government has pledged to recruit 1,300 additional probation officers by March 2025, in addition to the 1,000 officers currently being recruited. Mahmood insists that these new hires will help restore control and oversight within the probation service, ensuring that resources are used more effectively.
However, concerns remain about whether these measures will be enough to compensate for the removal of structured rehabilitation courses, particularly for those convicted of serious crimes. The probation service plays a crucial role in monitoring offenders after their release, and critics argue that any relaxation of supervision could have severe consequences for public safety.
Seeking Justice for Abuse Survivors
For those who have suffered sexual abuse or domestic violence, the news that offenders may no longer face proper rehabilitation is deeply concerning. Survivors deserve justice, and it is vital that the legal system ensures offenders are held accountable and do not pose a continued risk to the public.
If you have been a victim of abuse, you may have the right to seek justice through a civil abuse claim. Hutcheon Law specialises in representing survivors of historic and recent abuse, offering expert legal advice in a sensitive and confidential manner.
Suffer in Silence Get the Support You Deserve
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual abuse or domestic violence, legal help is available. Hutcheon Law has a dedicated team of experienced abuse solicitors who can guide you through the legal process, ensuring that you receive the support and justice you deserve.
For completely confidential legal advice, visit our sexual abuse and harassment page for further information, today. Don’t suffer in silence help is available.
