Agenda item

Progress report and proposal for future delivery

Peter Clifton presented the assessment of potential benefits of the expansion of the IOM Cohort Project in Barnet. Mr Clifton informed the board of the positive impact of the Integrated Offender Management programme on probation performance and crime levels in Barnet. The current caseload for IOM Cohort programme has resulted in 36% average reduction in monthly conviction rates after offenders joined the IOM programme. It was noted that IOM has had a positive impact on reducing re-offending rate from 8% to 6% and that offending has been lower by around 12% (page 61 of the report agenda).

The Board was informed on the possible outcomes of the expansions of the IOM scheme in reducing offending rates. Duncan Tessier asked what portion of all individuals arrested formed part of the top repeat offenders’ cohort. It is estimated that the top 200 offenders accounted for 10-13% of total crime within the borough and 2.9% of all individuals arrested.

ACTION: for Peter Clifton to provide further analysis of top cohort offenders in comparison to total crime committed in the borough.

The Board heard how offending reductions have been achieved by comparing repeat offending data for individuals on the IOM scheme to those not participating in the scheme. Peter Clifton informed the Board that the expansion of the cohort to a wider range of offenders would create a real opportunity for offenders to benefit from the Integrated Offender Management programme. Mr Clifton highlighted that it is estimated that the IOM scheme would equate to an annual reduction of 884 offences or 3.8% reduction in Barnet’s crime rate. Mr Clifton highlighted that therefore there is a strong confidence in the benefits of the IOM programme and emphasised the recommendation for the expansion of the scheme.

Duncan Tessier noted the potential benefits of the application of the IOM scheme to youth offenders.

ACTION: for the Board to consider the expansion of the Integrated Offender Management cohort (Kiran Vagarwal/ Peter Clifton)

ACTION: the Board consider the application of the Integrated Offender Management scheme to youth offenders (Kiran Vagarwal/ Peter Clifton)

Kiran Vagarwal highlighted that the Reducing Reoffending Group (RRG) have been requested to consider the potential client list and expansion of the level of cohort group. In relation to resourcing Mr Clifton commented that by expanding the cohort, additional local police resource will be required, two further police leads, to ensure enforcement compliance.

The Chairman commended the report and thanked Kiran Vagarwal and Peter Clifton for the preparation and presentation of the item. The Chairman also noted the importance of reviewing the strategy for future improvement and success in reducing offending rates.

Bradley Few, Programme Manager MOPAC, informed the Board that funding is allocated 4 years for the entire programme. Funding will have to be agreed and receive approval from Home Office and in the event of any underspent- funds would be re-allocated within the programme. The Assistant Director for Community and Wellbeing, Mathew Kendall noted the need to frame a set of objectives regarding current underspent, which will be utilised to deliver further results.

Action: Bradley Few to update the Board on current funding proposals and to review the performance and underspent of projects with the Board.