Probation Service Rated ‘Inadequate’

The probation service for Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland has been rated ‘inadequate’ by inspectors.

They found the service ‘at near crisis management levels’ when they visited in November, with low morale and excessive workloads for staff.

HM Inspectorate of Probation have given the service, also known as a Probation Delivery Unit (PDU), just two out of a possible 27 inspection points, saying staff shortages meant people were being sentenced without sufficient assessments and safeguarding inquiries being carried out.

Chief Inspector of Probation Justin Russell said: “Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland PDU are, unfortunately, not alone in the challenges that have resulted in this rating of ‘Inadequate’.

“They have high workloads and are facing difficulties in recruiting and retaining staff – something we have seen nationally in our recent inspections.

“Without an adequate workforce, a service will struggle to supervise people on probation effectively and the consequences risk public safety.

“This PDU is operating at near crisis management levels.  With insufficient staff across the organisation, it is only a matter of time before their ability to properly supervise people on probation and protect the local community is further diminished.”

The report say staff are committed and dedicated to their roles and recognises recent efforts to recruit new probation officers and administration staff.

13 recommendations for improvement have been made as a result of this inspection, including to improve vacancy rates, how they manage risk of harm, and provide more effective accommodation support services for people on probation.

The Ministry of Justice says it has taken immediate steps to raise standards.

An MoJ spokesperson said: “These reports note the real progress that is being made to recruit a record number of trainee probation officers – part of the extra £155 million this Government is investing into the Probation Service every year.

“These 4,000 officers will be in place by March to deliver tougher supervision of offenders and keep the public safe.

“We understand more action is needed in the East Midlands and have taken immediate steps to raise standards including new mandatory staff training to improve risk assessments.”