NCJ Number
197128
Date Published
2002
Length
33 pages
Annotation
This chapter provides a brief review of the constructive uses of imprisonment and discusses these uses in relation to proposals under the Home Office Sentencing Framework Review or Halliday Report (2001).
Abstract
In this chapter, positive uses of imprisonment in Britain are explored, as well as evidence on what works. Various types of positive prison regimes are described. In addition, short prison terms are considered and proposals presented under the Home Office Framework Sentencing Review or Halliday Report (2001) on sentencing reform. One of the major changes to have occurred in the Prison Service over the last decade has been the determination to introduce only the highest quality research-based offending behavior programs into establishments and evaluate their effectiveness. Seven programs currently in place in prison include: Reasoning and Rehabilitation; Enhance Thinking Skills; a Problem-Solving Offending Behavior course; the Sex Offender Treatment Program; Rehabilitation of Addicted Prisoner trust (RAPt); Anger Management (CALM); and Cognitive Self-Change. The Halliday Report formulated a new correctional vision enhancing public understanding and confidence and improving the effectiveness of sentences. A recommendation is made for a new sentence of anywhere between 2 weeks and 3 months with a period of supervision to follow. This new sentence of custody-plus, custody followed by community service work, attempts to reduce re-offending. The Report also recommends a short prison sentence with no follow-up for some offenders. The early days of custody are seen as the most traumatic for the prisoner and the most complex for the prison administration. The Report’s proposals make programs for short-term prisoners more viable. Custody-plus may be the perfect sentence for offenders, but may cause some major organizational problems for the Prison Service. Appendices, references