The latest views and discussion from Clinks staff and guest writers. We also use blogs to give short updates on our latest projects, as well as briefings on topics of interest to members.
Working with the House of Lords - A Guide
When we begin the journey of influencing in Parliament, we often think about working with MPs to bring about change. But it is important to remember that the authority to make law in the UK has three parts: the Monarch, the House of Commons, and the House of Lords. The following blog explores the meaningful role the House of Lords can play in your influencing strategy.
An update on commissioning following March’s engagement forum between Clinks, HMPPS and MoJ
Last month Clinks met with representatives from His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) and the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) for the first in person quarterly commissioning engagement forum; a space which was created about two years ago to provide regular discussion and feedback on commissioning rounds that will involve the voluntary sector working in criminal justice. An update on this collaborative work.
Update on funding for the criminal justice voluntary sector
This blog outlines the key notes of importance within the response given to Clinks by Amy Rees clarifying budget allocations and the voluntary sector 2023/2024, and the subsequent conversation between Clinks and HMPPS on the deferred funding for voluntary organisations.
Reflections on the Race and Justice Network
21 March 2023 is the international day for the elimination of racial discrimination, an opportunity to reflect on individual, and collective, progress in challenging discrimination in our organisations and across the criminal justice system.
In this blog, Kaiya Caines, Clinks Race and Justice coordinator, reflects on the many accomplishments in challenging racial discrimination in the criminal justice system and sets out our approach for the the future.
Commissioning of prison-based arts projects through the Dynamic Purchasing System
This blog has been written by three leaders of small specialist arts organisations that work in prisons in England and Wales.
It shares their perspectives on the commissioning of prison-based arts projects through the Dynamic Purchasing System.
Clinks annual conference 2022 key takeaways
It has been a tough year. Recovery from the pandemic and major changes to the criminal justice operating environment, including probation unification and proposed prison reforms, presented significant challenges. This blog will share 'key takeaways' from each speaker and panel featured.
An update on commissioning following October’s engagement forum between Clinks, HMPPS and MoJ
Last month Clinks met with representatives from His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) and the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) for the quarterly commissioning engagement forum; a space which was created to provide regular discussion and feedback on commissioning rounds that will involve the voluntary sector working in criminal justice. See our earlier blog for more details on the purpose of these forums and how you can feed into them in the future.
What's New
Blogs
State of the Sector 2025 - Make Your Voice Heard:
This blog, from Clinks' CEO, Anne Fox, launches this year's State of the Sector research, explains how organisations can get involved, and sets out how the project will run.
Publications
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The role is for a leader from an organisation focused on racially minoritised people, with expertise in service delivery, policy, advocacy, or related areas in criminal justice. Racial disparities are present at every CJS stage. This role ensures these voices are central in shaping policy to help address and eradicate them. Apply by Mon 18 Nov, 10am. More info: https://www.clinks.org/voluntary-community-sector/vacancies/15566 #CriminalJustice #RR3 #RacialEquity