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.
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.
Building relationships with new leadership at the Ministry of Justice
Following an unstable period in leadership in Westminster, there have been further changes to the ministerial line-up at the Ministry of Justice. This blog post provides information about the new ministerial team, explains what steps Clinks has taken to reach out to the new Prisons Minister, and suggests how voluntary organisations can build relationships with decision makers.
Ministry of Justice grant funding for women's services - what you need to know
Olivia Dehnavi, Clinks Senior Policy Officer, outlines how women's voluntary sector organisations can apply for grants for women's services as part of the Ministry of Justice's £24 million investment to support women in or at risk of contact with the criminal justice system.
What's New
Blogs
What do we mean by co-curated?
This is a guest blog by David Kendall, the founder of "Penned Up" - a literary festival that takes place in prison.
David started "Penned Up" because he felt people in prison were denied agency – art was done to them. The festival started in HMP Lewes in 2015, and has run programmes in Downview and Erlestoke with the latter becoming its base. The model is always a committee of prisoners working with the festival directors to put together a programme reflecting the interests and needs of its prison audience.
Publications
The Education Committee inquiry into boys’ attainment and engagement in education
Clinks provided a response to the The Education Committee inquiry into boys’ attainment and engagement in education.
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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