Harry Annison, Co-Investigator of Rehabilitating Probation Research Project and Professor of Criminal Justice at Southampton Law School. h.annison@soton.ac.uk
Nicola Carr, Professor of Sociology and Social Policy, University of Nottingham. Nicola.Carr@nottingham.ac.uk.
Daniel Birungi, PhD researcher within the department of Accounting, Southampton Business School. D.Birungi@soton.ac.uk.
Gwen Robinson, Professor of Law, University of Sheffield. g.j.robinson@sheffield.ac.uk.
Matthew Millings, Reader in Criminal Justice in the School of Justice Studies. Liverpool John Moore's University, M.N.Millings@ljmu.ac.uk.
Lol Burke, Professor in Criminal Justice, Liverpool John Moore's University. L.Burke@ljmu.ac.uk.
Context
Probation services in England and Wales have undergone extensive reforms, including a major outsourcing initiative in 2014 that was reversed less than a decade later. The "Rehabilitating Probation" research project examines the challenges and opportunities presented by this rapid transformation, drawing on over 340 interviews with probation leaders, practitioners, and service users.
The findings highlight the lasting impact of outsourcing, the complexities of implementing change, and the need for probation to rebuild its culture, identity, and legitimacy. Lessons from this study offer broader insights for public sector reform, particularly in balancing stability with necessary innovation. As policymakers consider the future of probation, understanding these dynamics is critical to ensuring effective rehabilitation, public protection, and professional resilience.
For a deeper look at these insights and recommendations, read the full brief.
