West Sussex Probation Delivery Unit (PDU)* has received an overall rating of ‘Inadequate’ following an inspection by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Probation.

Chief Inspector of Probation Justin Russell said: “An ‘Inadequate’ rating is always disappointing and West Sussex PDU has a tough job ahead of them. We want to see those on probation, especially those who pose a risk to others, are properly managed – the local community must be reassured that the likelihood of someone offending again is reduced.

“However, I am encouraged by the attitude shown by a service which is clearly determined to improve. Their response during this inspection was admirable and staff showed real enthusiasm for their work – they are positive about the future despite a turbulent year due to the national changes to the Probation Service and the ongoing challenges posed by Covid-19.”

West Sussex PDU, like many services, has experienced significant staff shortages. However, staff are given clear direction and know which of their cases to prioritise. The inspection report commended the strong leadership at the service and their ability to adapt to change.

Unfortunately, their clear strategic direction could not disguise shortfalls in how the service manages those who pose a risk of reoffending, or difficulties they have experienced in providing important community programmes such as unpaid work.

Seven of the recommendations in this inspection report call upon the national and regional probation service to better support West Sussex which, with better resources, is on the right trajectory to improve swiftly. For West Sussex specifically, the Inspectorate made three recommendations around training for staff on areas such as risk, safeguarding and managing workloads.

*Probation Delivery Units (PDUs) replaced Community Rehabilitation Companies (CRCs) and the National Probation Service (NPS), which merged into a unified Probation Service in June 2021.

ENDS

Notes to editor

1. *Probation Delivery Units (PDUs) replaced Community Rehabilitation Companies (CRCs) and the National Probation Service (NPS), which merged into a unified Probation Service in June 2021.
2. West Kent PDU sits within the Probation Service – Kent, Surrey and Sussex region.
3. The report is available at justiceinspectorates.gov.uk/hmiprobation on 11 May 2022 00.01.
4. HM Inspectorate of Probation is the independent inspector of youth offending and probation services across England and Wales.
5. The Inspectorate uses a four-point scale: ‘Outstanding’, ‘Good’, ‘Requires improvement’ and ‘Inadequate’. The Inspectorate rates specific aspects of each service and also gives an overall rating.
6. Fieldwork for this inspection took place in February 2022.
7. For media enquiries, please contact Corporate Communications Manager Diane Bramall 07929 790 564 or media@hmiprobation.gov.uk (E-mail address)