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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 30/09/2026

What works in public protection? Our new Effective Practice Spotlight showcases examples from across the Probation Service, highlighting approaches that support high-quality practice and safer communities. 🎥⬇️ buff.ly/hoOZurY

Greater Manchester Multi-Agency Public Protection Team slide featuring a quote about shifting from reviewing past incidents to focusing on next steps to manage risk and protect potential victims; footer labels it an Effective Practice Spotlight from national inspection findings.

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 29/09/2026

Slide titled "Complex Case Support: building confidence and support networks for practitioners managing complex risk," showing a quote urging practitioners to "zoom out, take a breath and review the case and its complexities," with a footer noting an Effective Practice Spotlight.

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 28/09/2026

Merseyside's automated domestic abuse information sharing system. "from the get-go we have that information to help us inform our assessments. Practitioners are getting real time information about alerts, and they can be confident about decisions they take."

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 25/09/2026

The characteristics of effective practice. "Practitioners cannot manage risk on their own, we need partners and colleagues to help us, and the more we can engage with other agencies the better we are at getting a real sense of what's important."

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 24/09/2026

Published today alongside our National Findings report, the Effective Practice Spotlight shares examples from across the Probation Service and their impact on public safety. Read our Effective Practice Spotlight here: buff.ly/pnljcIq

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https://buff.ly/pnljcIq

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 24/09/2026

NEW: Today we published our national findings following a review of public protection measures delivered by all 12 regions of the Probation Service in England and Wales. buff.ly/vUK9FWW

A picture of the Chief Inspector of Probation with a quote that says frontline probation staff are working hard to keep communities safe, often in very difficult circumstances. However, public protection work was not being delivered consistently well enough to provide the assurance that victims, communities and partner agencies were entitled to expect. Our findings show that regions cannot resolve these issues alone. National action is needed to stabilise the workforce, strengthen information-sharing with the police and children's services, and support practitioners to make full and confident use of the information available to them.

This report focused specifically on public protection work being delivered by all 12 regions of the Probation Service across England and Wales.

We inspected public protection work across 858 cases and conducted 711 case inspection interviews with practitioners, examining assessment, planning, implementation and delivery, and reviewing, all through the lens of public protection work.

Vetting delays remain a significant barrier to recruitment, hindering the timely filling of vacancies and, in some cases, causing successful candidates to withdraw before appointment.

Increased workforce instability, and decreased resilience across probation staffing, is directly impacting the quality and consistency of risk management practice; these are longstanding problems, and recruitment shortfalls and staff shortages do not simply mean a busier workforce, they contribute to a heightened risk to public protection.

Information-sharing with the police has improved, but in almost one in five cases (18 per cent) information received about domestic abuse was of insufficient quality to be meaningful in assessing risk; information-sharing with children’s services remains a more significant and persistent weakness, with information of insufficient quality to inform risk assessment in nearly a third of relevant cases (31 per cent).

Even where information was available, practitioners did not always make effective use of it: in more than half of cases inspected (54 per cent), critical information was not sufficiently interrogated, analysed or translated into robust risk assessment and management activity.

There is currently no agreed national strategy setting out overarching principles for how probation should work with the police and children’s services, meaning individual Probation Delivery Units are left attempting to solve the same shared problems in isolation.

Public protection outcomes were consistently strongest where regions and Probation Delivery Units had the flexibility to use their initiative and apply locally innovative solutions, within a clear national framework.

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 21/09/2026

Are overall one-word ratings still the most effective way to communicate inspection findings? We're consulting on the future presentation of inspection findings and SFO QA outcomes, and we want your views. Read more and respond here: buff.ly/Zh2Cn9V

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 17/09/2026

In Probation Quarterly Issue 41, our Research Officer, Oliver Kenton, examines the challenges and opportunities facing probation interventions under the Sentencing Act 2026. buff.ly/3jY1mFM

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 15/09/2026

Sandwell YJS has been rated ‘Good’ following an inspection of their work with children and victims. Inspectors praised effective partnership working, strong leadership and coordinated responses to exploitation, youth violence and extra-familial harm. buff.ly/kyM9Vwr

A picture of the Chief Inspector of Probation, Martin Jones with a quote that says “Work with victims was a notable strength. Practitioners and managers demonstrated genuine care and commitment to supporting victims, and the YJS, partnership board and commissioned service had worked collaboratively and at pace to develop a high-quality service.”

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 14/09/2026

Inspection announcement: Fleming House Approved Premises in Maidstone. On site fieldwork starts this week.

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 11/09/2026

Our new Digital Transformation Strategy sets out how we'll use digital, data and generative AI to strengthen inspections, improve evidence and insight, and become a fully digitally enabled organisation by 2030. Read more: hmiprobation.justiceinspectorates.gov.uk/corporate-do...

hmiprobation.justiceinspectorates.gov.uk

HM Inspectorate of Probation Digital Transformation Strategy 2026-2028 – HM Inspectorate of Probation

Inspecting probation and  youth justice services.

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 08/09/2026

Martin Jones CBE has been reappointed as His Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Probation. The Secretary of State for Justice has confirmed a second term, running from 1 March 2027 to 30 April 2030. Read more: www.gov.uk/government/n...

gov.uk

Martin Jones reappointed as His Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Probation

The Secretary of State for Justice has announced the reappointment of Martin Jones as His Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Probation.

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 07/09/2026

Inspection announcement: youth justice work with children and victims in Leeds - fieldwork starts w/c 05 October 2026.

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 04/09/2026

Together with @ofstednews.bsky.social, Care Quality Commission and HMICFRS, we have today published guidance for a new round of thematic inspections focusing on younger children living with neglect, as part of our programme of joint targeted area inspections: www.gov.uk/government/n...

Younger children living with neglect to be focus of new joint targeted area inspections

Ofsted, CQC, HMICFRS and HM Inspectorate of Probation will begin a new joint inspection programme in autumn 2026, focusing on how local agencies work together to identify, respond to and prevent neglect affecting unborn children and children aged 0 to 11.

Quote from Martin Jones, Chief Inspector of Probation "Probation services play an important role in assessing and managing risks posed by adults whose behaviour may affect children’s lives, sharing information with partners and contributing to safeguarding arrangements.

These inspections will provide valuable insight into how effectively local agencies are working together to recognise and respond to neglect, helping to ensure that younger children receive the protection and support they need at the earliest opportunity.

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 02/09/2026

What does effective probation practice look like in action? Early learning from our PI2026 pilot inspections highlights personalised, responsive and collaborative work that supports change and keeps people safe. hmiprobation.justiceinspectorates.gov.uk/ep-blog/pi20...

hmiprobation.justiceinspectorates.gov.uk

PI2026 pilot inspections: Early learning about effective probation practice – HM Inspectorate of Probation

Inspecting probation and  youth justice services.

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 01/09/2026

Buckinghamshire YJST has been rated 'Good' following an inspection of work with children and victims. Inspectors praised the range of activities available to meet children's needs. Recommendations were made to improve the consistency of work with victims buff.ly/idqgwqe

Buckinghamshire Youth Justice Support Team (YJST)

Overall rating: Good. A quote from HM Chief Inspector of Probation Martin Jones CBE, “Buckinghamshire YJST was a well-led partnership that placed children at the centre of its work. We saw an environment where children felt listened to, respected and valued by skilled and dedicated practitioners”.

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 26/08/2026

Merseybank AP has been rated 'Good' following an inspection. Inspectors found positive relationships between staff and residents which supported both rehabilitation and effective management of risk. However, the quality of rehabilitative work was variable buff.ly/1m60JSP

Merseybank Approved Premises (AP). Overall rating Good. A quote from Chief Inspector of Probation, Martin Jones “This was a well-led service with a clear commitment to learning and improvement. Leaders had used learning from findings identified during previous inspections elsewhere in the region to strengthen practice through audit and quality assurance activity in several areas. They provided visible and supportive leadership, helping to create a positive culture where staff felt valued and residents were treated with respect.”

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 24/08/2026

Probation Service practitioners: Help shape our SFO Annual Report 2026. We're seeking views from practitioners on how learning from SFO reviews is shared, acted on and embedded across the Service. Find out more: hmiprobation.justiceinspectorates.gov.uk/news/have-yo...

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 24/08/2026

Inspection announcement: youth justice work with children and victims in Milton Keynes - fieldwork starts w/c 14 September 2026.

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 24/08/2026

Inspection announcement: Kew Approved Premises in Richmond. On site fieldwork starts this week.

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 21/08/2026

Yesterday, we published our DIPP reports for London and the North East region, marking the completion of our dynamic inspection programme. We are now looking forward to sharing the national findings from the programme in September. buff.ly/NxTUHWm

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 21/08/2026

NEW: Today we published our 75th Academic Insight which highlights the relevance of compassion fatigue as one of the vicarious harms faced by probation practitioners. Read the full report here buff.ly/mwsT63A

A quote which says compassion fatigue can affect practitioners both professionally and personally contributing to reduced wellbeing diminished work performance and commitment and a range of physical and emotional consequences. It is therefore vital that the service takes the concept seriously prioritising staff wellbeing and creating conditions for high-quality delivery including reduced sickness absence and improved staff retention. The focus should be on developing a system that promotes psychological safety and resilience and the paper sets out a range of recommendations including raising awareness of compassion fatigue drawing on learning from other sectors strengthening protective factors adopting strength - based approaches and maximising reflexivity.

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 20/08/2026

A Dynamic Inspection of Public Protection in the North East region was published today. While inspectors identified areas where further progress is needed, they praised the region's improvements and highlighted stronger operational practice in relation to public protection. buff.ly/hk9OnuN

A picture of the Chief Inspector of Probation with a quote that says "Leaders and staff in the North East should be proud of the progress they are making. This has been the only region where at least half of the cases examined were evaluated to have sufficiently met all four of our key questions relating to the management of risk. As we mentioned in our last inspection many of the right systems were in place in the North East region and with continued focus improvements were likely. This is likely the fruition of that work."

Context: The North East region of the Probation Service covers seven probation delivery units (PDUs). These are: Newcastle upon Tyne, County Durham & Darlington, Redcar, Cleveland, & Middlesborough, Stockton & Hartlepool, North Tyneside & Northumberland, Sunderland, and Gateshead & South Tyneside. Sixty-one cases were inspected where the Inspectorate examined assessment, planning, implementation and delivery, and reviewing, all through the lens of public protection work. At the time of the inspection, the region supervised 11,342 people in the community or in custody.

HM Inspectorate of Probation Findings: Inspectors generally found notable improvements compared with our last inspection in the North East region across all areas of assessment, planning, implementation and delivery, and reviewing, with over 60 per cent of cases evaluated to be meeting our standards for assessment and planning. Structural changes had been made by leaders since our last inspection to reinforce the importance of public protection work. Further work was required to improve the quality of case assessments, to ensure they drew sufficiently from all available sources of information. Shortfalls were found in assessment and planning, with some staff still lacking the confidence and experience to seek clarification about information they received from partner agencies.

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 20/08/2026

A Dynamic Inspection of Public Protection in the London region was published today. Despite leadership being a strength, inspectors identified a significant gap between strategic ambition and frontline delivery. Read the full report: buff.ly/VCZE92A

Dynamic Inspection of Public Protection in the London region.

Quote from Martin Jones CBE Chief Inspector of Probation, "Leaders demonstrated a strong commitment to improving the quality of practice which was supported by well-developed systems for performance management and learning. Despite these positive steps, the quality of practice observed during this inspection remained inconsistent, and inspectors did not find enough evidence that these strategic improvements had translated into consistent outcomes in frontline delivery.”

Dynamic Inspection of Public Protection
in the London region

Context:

London is the largest probation region in England and Wales. One hundred and two cases were inspected where the Inspectorate examined assessment, planning, implementation and delivery, and reviewing, all through the lens of public protection work. At the time of the inspection announcement, the region supervised 37,195 people in the community or in custody.

Staffing numbers were improving in the region, however a significant gap remained with a 33 per cent vacancy rate at probation officer grade

Findings:

The inspection identified a significant gap between strategic ambition and frontline delivery. Innovative operating models, specialist multi-agency forums and enhanced quality assurance processes demonstrated a region that was actively seeking solutions to persistent challenges. However, weaknesses in assessment, planning, implementation, and reviewing remained evident across casework.

Inspectors described leadership to be a particular strength of the London region, with regional leaders displaying a strong understanding of public protection.

Workforce capability was found to be a significant issue affecting the region’s ability to adequately protect the public.

Information sharing with the Metropolitan Police remains a longstanding concern.

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 19/08/2026

Reframing masculinity in young men and boys, Artificial Intelligence in Probation and Child Criminal Exploitation are just some of the topics we've covered in our Academic Insights. As we mark the publication of our 75th report this week, you can access the full collection here buff.ly/Jspe2xt

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 19/08/2026

This Friday we will be publishing our 75th Academic Insight. Since 2019, the series has helped share research, evidence and expert perspectives to support informed debate and understanding of what helps and hinders effective probation and youth justice services. buff.ly/Jspe2xt

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Academic insights – HM Inspectorate of Probation

Inspecting probation and  youth justice services.

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 13/08/2026

A Dynamic Inspection of Public Protection in Wales was published today. Inspectors commented on positive improvements since our last inspection in 2025, with planning a clear strength. However, public protection still needs focus. Read the full report: buff.ly/gkdrDFs

Dynamic inspection of public protection in Wales. A quote from HM Chief Inspector of Probation Martin Jones CBE, “Overall, while the region was moving in the right direction, the quality of public protection work was not yet consistently good enough. Sufficient time and emphasis were now needed to embed changes, strengthen analytical practice, and improve information sharing. A sustained focus on these areas would be essential if the region was to realise its ambition of delivering consistently high-quality work to keep people safe.”

Dynamic Inspection of Public Protection
in Wales.

Context:

The Wales region of the Probation Service covers six Probation Delivery Units (PDUs), Cwm Taf Morgannwg, Dyfed Powys, Swansea Neath Port Talbot, Cardiff and the Vale, Gwent, and North Wales.

Fifty-five cases were inspected where the Inspectorate examined assessment, planning, implementation and delivery, and reviewing, all through the lens of public protection work. At the time of the inspection announcement, the region supervised 10,686 people in

the community or in custody.

Findings:

Planning was a clear strength in practice, reflecting the sustained and targeted activity which had started before the previous inspection in 2025. Revised offender assessment system briefings had supported practitioners to produce more focused and strategic risk management plans.

While most cases demonstrated an appropriate overall risk classification, there were persistent weaknesses in analytical depth. Domestic abuse histories were not always explored fully, and practitioners did not consistently link behaviour to the impact on children or recognise patterns across cases.

Staffing levels across the region were stable overall, however workloads continued to be adversely affected by vacancies.

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 12/08/2026

Trent House AP has been rated 'Requires improvement following an inspection. Inspectors noted some strengths but found prolonged staffing shortages and management instability had impacted their quality of service delivery. Read the full report here. buff.ly/3ROpfxD

A quote from Martin Jones Chief Inspector of Probation which says overall rating: 'Requires improvement'. We recognise that Trent House was operating in challenging circumstances at the time of this inspection, having been without a substantive manager for an extended period. Despite this, we found a committed and resilient staff group who were working hard to maintain service delivery.

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 04/08/2026

Medway YJS has been rated 'Requires improvement' following an inspection of work with children and victims. Although planning to achieve positive change for children was impressive, inspectors found the quality of assessing needed strengthening buff.ly/RvyMomJ

Medway Youth Justice Service (YJS). Overall rating: Requires improvement. A quote from HM Chief Inspector of Probation Martin Jones CBE, “The practitioners at Medway YJS were skilled at building meaningful and trusting relationships and tailoring interventions to the needs of children. While we found evidence of promising practice, there remained important aspects of service delivery that needed to improve to ensure consistent outcomes for children, victims and the community were met.”

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 04/08/2026

Rotherham YJS has been rated 'Requires improvement' following an inspection of work with children and victims. Inspectors found that practitioners were skilled and committed to identifying the strengths of the children, but noted inconsistences in practice buff.ly/AeRNJXG

Rotherham Youth Justice Service (YJS). Overall rating: Requires improvement. A quote from HM Chief Inspector of Probation Martin Jones CBE, "We recognise that this inspection took place during a period of significant change for the service. Despite this, there was a sense of optimism that the proposed changes would create opportunities to strengthen services for children and victims. I wish the team every success for the future.”

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 03/08/2026

Inspection announcement: youth justice services in Cardiff - fieldwork starts w/c 07 September 2026.

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 31/07/2026

To wrap up our week focusing on working with domestic abuse, we’re highlighting the Changing Futures programme in Lancashire, a joint initiative by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities and the National Lottery Community Fund. Read the full guide here: buff.ly/AYpqnDJ

Example of effectiveness: Changing Futures, Lancashire
Changing Futures supports adults experiencing multiple and complex needs, including domestic abuse, homelessness, mental health issues, substance misuse, and involvement with the criminal justice system.

The programme was co-produced with people with lived experience and provides tailored support to help individuals address practical needs such as housing, health, and finances, creating greater stability in their lives.

By addressing underlying needs, the programme helps individuals engage more effectively with probation and increases opportunities to participate in domestic abuse interventions.

Probation practitioners reported that coordinated support from multiple agencies helped individuals access services, maintain engagement, and make positive changes that can reduce the risk of further domestic abuse.

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 30/07/2026

As we continue to highlight effective examples of working with domestic abuse, today we are focusing on the Wales Integrated Serious and Dangerous Offender Management (WISDOM) programme. Read the full Effective Practice guide here: hmiprobation.justiceinspectorates.gov.uk/effective-pr...

Wales Integrated Serious and Dangerous Offender Management (WISDOM). WISDOM is a multi-agency programme in Wales which brings together probation, police, forensic psychological services and other local partners to improve public protection and manage individuals who present a high risk of causing serious harm, including domestic abuse.

The WISDOM team draws heavily on advice and support from HMPPS psychological services to understand and work with complex cases. Case formulations are shared with partners to allow all agencies to take a consistent approach with each individual.

Case illustration: Ed had a history of abusing multiple victims and was managed by the WISDOM team due to the seriousness and complexity of his domestic abuse offending. Working closely with police, children’s social care, and other agencies, the probation practitioner completed a detailed assessment, coordinated information sharing, and put safeguards in place to protect victims through measures such as MARAC referrals and Clare’s Law disclosures.

Following Ed’s release, agencies continued to work together, responding quickly to emerging concerns and ensuring risks were identified and managed to protect existing and potential victims. Ed’s case is an effective example of the work of the WISDOM team and demonstrates the benefits of this multi-agency approach to working with complex individuals.

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 29/07/2026

This week we’re highlighting examples of effective practice when working with domestic abuse. This example of effectiveness demonstrates the impact of an effective relationship with children’s social care, where information shared in a timely way had helped to keep a child safe.

Working with domestic abuse Children’s Social Care. Example of effectiveness:

Harry was a 28-year-old male sentenced to a 24-month community order with rehabilitation activity requirement days and a requirement to complete the Building Better Relationships programme for an offence of criminal damage linked to domestic abuse.

The probation practitioner was open and transparent about their role and how information would be shared with partner agencies, helping to establish trust and openness throughout supervision.

This approach helped build a positive working relationship, enabling Harry to engage openly in supervision, take ownership of his actions, and play an active role in planning his sentence.

When Harry disclosed changes in his relationship and later his partner's pregnancy, the probation practitioner promptly shared relevant information and concerns with children's social care.

Probation and children's social care worked closely together, regularly sharing information, reviewing risks, and coordinating their activity. The allocated social worker also worked with the nominated midwife to plan for the child's safe arrival.

Consistent communication and joint working enabled services to identify risks early, put safeguards in place, and help protect Harry's unborn child throughout the pregnancy and beyond.

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 28/07/2026

This week we’re highlighting effective examples of working with domestic abuse in probation. As part of its commitment to ensuring that perpetrators of domestic abuse are managed robustly, the Probation Service in Wales established a Domestic Abuse Board.

Strategic approach to domestic abuse, Wales Probation Service.
Example of effectiveness:
The Probation Service in Wales established its Domestic Abuse Board in 2022 to strengthen the management of domestic abuse perpetrators, reduce reoffending, and improve protection for victims.

The board brings together teams from across probation to coordinate activity, oversee delivery of the Wales Domestic Abuse Action Plan, and support a consistent approach to tackling domestic abuse across Wales.

This approach creates a single forum where all aspects of domestic abuse are considered, bringing together representatives from operational teams, learning and development, and quality and performance.

By working collaboratively, these teams ensure a joined-up approach across probation, enabling the consistent sharing of information, learning, and good practice with frontline staff to strengthen the response to domestic abuse.

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 27/07/2026

This week we are highlighting examples from our Working with Domestic Abuse Effective Practice Guide, looking at how we can reduce the incidence of domestic abuse and protect victims. Follow along to learn more. Explore the guide here: hmiprobation.justiceinspectorates.gov.uk/effective-pr...

hmiprobation.justiceinspectorates.gov.uk

Working with domestic abuse (adult services) July 2023 – HM Inspectorate of Probation

Inspecting probation and  youth justice services.

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 22/07/2026

Congratulations to Elizabeth Fry AP on their rating of 'Outstanding'. The service received a score of 15/15 through our inspection standards and inspectors praised staff for their strong understanding of working with women in the criminal justice system. buff.ly/A5bOri9

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 21/07/2026

ICYMI: We have published our 2025-2026 Annual Report which, for the first time, covers all Inspectorate programmes including probation, youth justice, and national, and local area inspections. hmiprobation.justiceinspectorates.gov.uk/news/our-new...

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 21/07/2026

Stoke YJSS has been rated 'Inadequate' following an inspection of work with children and victims. Although practitioners formed strong relationships with children and families, inspectors found significant shortfalls across assessing, planning and delivery buff.ly/qdb58Qu

Stoke-on-Trent Youth Justice Support Service. Overall rating: ‘Inadequate’. A quote from His Majesty Chief Inspector of Probation Martin Jones CBE, “While Stoke-on-Trent Youth Justice Support Service had the elements that should have enabled a high-quality service, including a well-resourced, multidisciplinary team that were committed and motivated to work with children and their families, concerningly, this was not currently translating into sufficient youth justice practice, and overall, the service was rated ‘Inadequate’.”

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 20/07/2026

In our first combined Annual Report, the Chief Inspector of Probation has called for “urgent, focused action” to protect the public and support victims. For the first time, this report covers all Inspectorate programmes. Read more here: hmiprobation.justiceinspectorates.gov.uk/news/our-new...

Text reads Annual Report, 2025-2026 with a quote ascribed to Chief Inspector of Probation, Martin Jones CBE which reads: “Our programmes continue to recognise committed, motivated practitioners working hard to achieve better outcomes for the people they manage, however, there is still much more to do to. I am pleased to have this opportunity to share the evidence that continues to underpin our call for urgent, focused action to protect the public, support victims, and give the Probation Service the foundations it needs to succeed.”

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 17/07/2026

NEW: Today we published our latest Research and Analysis Bulletin which aims to understand the issues of blame, learning and growth following Serious Further Offences in probation. buff.ly/fLr31qF

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 14/07/2026

Peterborough YJS has been rated 'Good' following an inspection of their work with children and victims. Inspectors were impressed with assessing activity at the service and noted its revised victim policy had improved quality engagement with victims. buff.ly/t1h1qFu

A picture of Martin Jones (Chief Inspector of Probation) with a quote that reads Children at Peterborough YJS were supported by skilled practitioners who had high aspirations for them. There was a clear focus on helping children to recognise their potential, and staff actively worked with them to effectively support positive change.

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 13/07/2026

Introducing our Effective Practice blog! Our first edition explains our Lived Experience Advisory Group and Research & Effective Practice Network. Find out more here: hmiprobation.justiceinspectorates.gov.uk/about-us/eff...

hmiprobation.justiceinspectorates.gov.uk

Effective practice – HM Inspectorate of Probation

Inspecting probation and  youth justice services.

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 13/07/2026

Inspection announcement: youth justice work with children and victims in Tameside - fieldwork starts w/c 03 August 2026.

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 13/07/2026

Inspection announcement: Reactive Inspection of Youth Justice Services in Bradford. Fieldwork starts w/c 24 August 2026.

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 10/07/2026

NEW: Today we published our latest Academic Insight exploring the current and potential uses of Artificial Intelligence within probation, highlighting the opportunities presented and the challenges raised for practice, decision-making, and service delivery buff.ly/ABXE8hn

Quote from Dr Robin Moore, Head of Data Analysis and Research about Artificial Intelligence in Probation, "AI tools provide opportunities to automate tasks and reduce workload, freeing up practitioners to focus upon the uniquely human aspects of their role, notably developing good relationships with people on probation. At the same time, as is set out in this paper, the introduction of AI into probation raises ethical, legal, and professional challenges. Attention needs to be given to risks and challenges in relation to (i) bias, discrimination and privacy, (ii) transparency and overreliance, and (iii) due process and accountability."

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 08/07/2026

Stonnall Road AP in Walsall has been rated 'Good'. Inspectors praised the leadership culture and staff building constructive relationships with residents, while highlighting that not all staff had completed essential training. buff.ly/Y9Ymiw0

An inspection of Stonnall Road Approved Premises. Overall rating: 'Good'. A quote from HM Chief Inspector of Probation Martin Jones CBE, "Stonnall Road is delivering a good standard of service. There is a clear focus on rehabilitation, and the staff and managers have cultivated a respectful, inclusive environment where residents are supported to resettle into the community.”

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 06/07/2026

Inspection announcement: Merseybank Approved Premises in Liverpool. On site fieldwork starts this week.

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HM Inspectorate of Probation @hmiprobation.bsky.social · 01/07/2026

Crowley House AP has been rated as ‘Good’ following an inspection. Inspectors praised staff, management, and partnership agencies for delivering a service that was making a positive difference to women. buff.ly/bxCfKVW

A picture of Martin Jones, Chief Inspector of Probation with a quote about Crowley House Approved Premises. Overall rating: 'Good' "We found many strengths at Crowley House. Staff engaged well with residents and delivered high-quality rehabilitation work, and a range of well-developed interventions supported residents towards more independent living. By addressing some of the areas identified in this report, this service is well placed to build on its strengths and further improve outcomes for the women it supports." Martin Jones Martin Jones CBE HM Chief Inspector of Probation

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