NCJ Number
138902
Journal
Howard Journal of Criminal Justice Volume: 31 Issue: 3 Dated: (August 1992) Pages: 224-239
Date Published
1992
Length
16 pages
Annotation
Based on a research study sponsored by the British Home Office, this article reports on the existing procedures and arrangements for preparing lifers for release.
Abstract
Although many lifers do eventually resettle into the community, there is need for reform in existing procedures for preparing lifers for release. Currently, there is insufficient guidance for those who work with lifers regarding how they can best use their time. The probation service apparently views its role solely as that of facilitating the Prison Department's policy, and it offers only general objectives to its members. Both probation and prison officers need proper training. It is because risk assessment cannot be scientifically measured that optimal use must be made of the information available. In addition to the provision of adequate staff training, this means that work on risk assessment should begin at the earliest possible opportunity, certainly before lifers have reached semi-open conditions. Regardless of the degree to which long-term imprisonment may itself cause problems, society clearly has an interest in promoting a system that maximizes lifers' chances of resettlement in the community. Much of the rhetoric of the "revised strategy" is laudable, but the full complement of resources necessary for its implementation must be made available; in addition to what has already been suggested, this involves adequate staffing levels of prison and probation officers, a sufficient range of training courses to provide necessary skills, and a greater number of release routes. 35 notes and 8 references