New body to bring probation and prison services together

Prison and probation services will be bought together under a
new National Offender Management Service to be established in June,
home secretary David Blunkett announced, writes Clare
Jerrom.

The creation of the body follows recommendations in an
independent review of correctional services, and will ensure that
any progress in prison is followed through in the community.

Reducing high reoffending rates is the overall aim of the new
service, but NOMS will also be responsible for improving the
enforcement and credibility of community punishments and raising
educational standards among offenders.

The commissioner for correctional services, Martin Narey, has
been appointed chief executive of the new service and will be
“held explicitly accountable for reducing
re-offending”. Narey said he thought a 10 per cent reduction
in re-offending rates could be achieved.

As commissioner, Narey had oversight of the Youth Justice Board
in addition to prison and probation services. He will continue to
oversee the board, although it will remain a separate correctional
agency.

‘Reducing Crime, Changing Lives’ is due to be at www.homeoffice.gov.uk