Realising the rehabilitative potential of approved premises

HM Inspectorate of Probation is committed to reviewing, developing and promoting the evidence base for high-quality probation and youth justice services. Academic Insights are aimed at all those with an interest in the evidence base. We commission leading academics to present their views on specific topics, assisting with informed debate and aiding understanding of what helps and what hinders probation and youth justice services.

This report was kindly produced by Carla Reeves and Peter Marston, setting out the potential of approved premises (APs) to support desistance and rehabilitation whilst managing risks of harm to the public. Consideration is given to the optimum approach for APs at the system level, community level, and at the establishment level. An individualised approach is seen as vital, with approaches and activities tailored to AP residents, and attention given to their voice and involvement. The importance of community engagement and involvement is also highlighted, providing opportunities for residents which are supportive of longer-term social inclusion, and helping hostels to become embedded within communities rather than feeling imposed upon them.

APs remain one of the least visible and well-known parts of the criminal justice system, and within the inspectorate, we will consider how we can develop the AP evidence base and promote high-quality delivery through our future research and inspection activities.