System for Evaluating Probation Practice: Report of a Method Devised and Piloted by the Oxford Probation Studies Unit and Warwickshire Probation Service

• NCJ Number: 174121
• Author(s): C Roberts; R Burnett; A Kirby; H Hamill
• Date Published: 1996
• Length: 84 pages
• Sale Source: University of Oxford
• Language: English
• Country: United Kingdom
• Note: *This document is currently unavailable from NCJRS.

Annotation

The project described in this report piloted a British system for evaluating supervision practice in the Warwickshire Probation Service (WPS).

Abstract

The WPS, along with other British probation services, recognized that there has been a dearth of evidence within the probation service to show which aspects of practice are effective and in what ways. In order to identify and demonstrate effective community supervision, a prior requirement is to record and analyze appropriate information. The project research team was therefore commissioned by WPS to work in collaboration with staff in setting up a systematic and consistent means of collecting information, with a view toward establishing ongoing evaluation of probation practice. The primary task for the research team was to design data-collection procedures. Workshops were held to discuss the content and nature of these procedures with officers involved in the pilot project and to instruct staff in their use. A range of forms was devised. The evaluation system developed consists of procedures for evaluation of one-to-one supervision, evaluation of group programs, a comparison of assessments at the beginning and end of supervision, a comparison of offenders' ratings with those of their officers, and the solicitation of offenders' opinions of the value of supervision. Two categories of forms were developed: Core Measures Forms and Process Measures Forms. Core Measures Forms were used for recording information about the offenders' social circumstances and problems and their perceived link with offending. The Process Measures Forms were used for recording information about the process of supervision, including progress on objectives, methods, attendance, response to supervision, and any subsequent reconvictions. This report also addresses evaluation of the group-work programs, offenders' views about the supervision received, staff views of the pilot project, and recommended modifications to the system. The recommended modifications to the system pertain to form modifications and their administration, as well as the obtaining of data on long-term follow-up. 22 tables, 15 figures, and 17 references