Doncaster Probation Delivery Unit (PDU) has received an overall rating of ‘Inadequate’ following an inspection by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Probation. This is the first inspection of this PDU since it was established under the unification of probation services in 2021.

Martin Jones, Chief Inspector of Probation, said: “It was pleasing to see the workplace culture at Doncaster PDU was one built on collaboration and teamwork, and the staff and management demonstrate a commitment to improving service delivery. Unfortunately, this was not yet being reflected in casework and Doncaster PDU was rated ‘Inadequate’ overall.”

Strategic partners regard Doncaster PDU positively, and inspectors observed a collaborative approach to partnership working at both a strategic and operational level. Services for people on probation were co-located, which made them accessible, and provided enhanced information-sharing opportunities between probation staff and partnership agencies. However, inspectors were disappointed that practitioners did not consistently use this vital intelligence from agencies such as police and social care to inform assessments and plans.

Inspectors found inconsistent evidence that practitioners had sufficiently considered individuals’ protected characteristics and circumstances, and the necessary adjustments needed to ensure all people on probation were given equitable access to services and interventions.

Mr Jones continued: “Reassuringly, staff and leaders at Doncaster PDU understand where the PDU needs to improve and clear plans are already in place to make these improvements happen. We hope our recommendations will support Doncaster PDU on their journey in achieving their vision of delivering high-quality practice, and I wish them every success.”

The report makes six recommendations, including to improve the use of interventions and services available for people on probation to support desistance and manage the risk of harm and to provide all staff with the necessary training to undertake their roles.

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. Doncaster PDU is one of 11 PDUs in the Yorkshire and the Humber region of the Probation Service.
3. The report is available at justiceinspectorates.gov.uk/hmiprobation on 10 October 2024.
4. HM Inspectorate of Probation is the independent inspector of youth justice 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 July 2024.
7. For media enquiries, please contact Louise Cordell, Head of Communications 07523 805224 / media@hmiprobation.gov.uk (E-mail address)