AI chatbots among 'quick fixes' that could be used at HMP Wandsworth amid mistaken releases

Justice minister Lord Timpson said the south-west London prison had been given the “green light” to use artificial intelligence after a specialised team was sent in to find “some quick fixes”. A double manhunt was launched following the incorrect releases of an Algerian sex offender and a fraudster from the… AI chatbots could be used to help with "quick fixes" at HMP Wandsworth after two inmates were recently released from the prison by mistake....

Delivery format of Behaviour Change Interventions

I’ve delivered behaviour change programmes for several years, and have experience delivering 1:1 and as a group, as well as online and in-person. There are benefits and downsides to these different formats which are important to consider when managing programme delivery. Advantages of group delivery: Group delivery enables a more… By Ciara Placentino ...

Strengthening Practice, Building Confidence: Reflective Practice Launches Practitioner Webinar Series

At Reflective Practice, we know that the heart of effective criminal justice work lies in learning, reflection, and connection. Every day, practitioners across probation, prisons, youth justice, and rehabilitation make decisions that change lives — and they deserve support to keep learning, growing, and staying well. That’s why we’re excited… By Dipti Mouj...

The Chrysalis Conference 2025

Thank you to everyone who attended the 2025 Chrysalis Centre Conference brought to you by Reflective Practice held yesterday at Rothamsted Enterprises. Well done to all of our amazing speakers who spent their time sharing the latest research, insights and best practice into domestic abuse perpetrator interventions, whether in intimate… By Steff Edwards...

Probation Service is 'weak' and short of 3,150 staff

The National Audit Office (NAO) has today published a new report “Building an effective and resilient Probation Service” which says that the Government must actively manage its plan to boost weak Probation Service performance. The scale of the challenge is evident from two key facts in the report: In 2024-25,… Russell Webster reviews an assessment by the National Audit Office on the performance of the Probation Service. ...

The Digital Challenges Facing Young People

In today’s interconnected world, people are increasingly immersed in online environments and whilst the internet offers opportunities for learning and social connection, it also presents significant challenges. A recent report by Internet Matters revealed that over half of children accessing news via platforms like TikTok and Instagram often encounter distressing… By Chris English...

Why Women in Different Cultures Find It Difficult to Leave Abusive Marriages

Leaving an abusive marriage is never easy, but within different cultures there are factors which make it even more difficult, these can include cultural expectations, traditional beliefs and rigid gender roles. These factors come together to create powerful social, emotional and legal barriers which keep women trapped in abusive marriages. … By Hardeep Roud...

Working with a client throughout their experience of the cycle of change

The Cycle of Change theory by Prochaska & DiClemente outlines the different stages a person goes through when making a behavioural change. It is not a formula, but by recognising what stage our client is at, we can work to build their motivation to continue to move round the cycle… By Ciara Placentino ...

Research backs use of police diversion schemes but highlights inconsistency

The research examined pre-court diversion interventions around the world – both informal and formal. Informal pre-court diversion helps children avoid court and a criminal record by taking part in activities that address the causes of their behaviour and build skills for the future — for example, one-to-one counselling, drug or alcohol… Children arrested for the first time or for less serious offences are less likely to reoffend if they receive support instead of prosecution, new research from the Youth Endowment Fund (YEF) shows....

Decriminalising Addiction: What Are the Alternatives?

According to the NHS, addiction is defined as not having control over doing, taking or using something to the point where it could be harmful to you. It is possible to become addicted to various things, but for the purpose of this article the focus will be on drug addiction.… By Ellie Cole ...