Clinks Light Lunch | Issue 935 | 5 June 2026

Light lunch

 

In this issue...

 

In partnership with BM4C, we have some exciting work lined up as we look to progress on the racial justice agenda. As a result, we would welcome the involvement of any organisations led by and focused on racially minoritised people. To learn more about how your organisation can get involved in this work, please contact our Director of National Influencing & Networks, Sam Julius on sam.julius@clinks.org

Clinks is recruiting for a National Criminal Justice Arts Alliance (NCJAA) Coordinator to lead and develop the NCJAA, the leading national network of over 500 individuals and organisations delivering creative interventions to support people in prison, on probation and in the community. The Coordinator will work with the NCJAA Advisory Group, HMPPS and the wider membership to improve policy and practice in relation to arts-based work across the criminal justice system. Responsibilities include developing and delivering the annual work plan, coordinating the quarterly arts forum, managing stakeholder relationships and supporting income generation to ensure the long-term sustainability of the network. The role sits within Clinks’ National Influencing and Networks directorate. A Q&A session for prospective applicants will be held on 16 June at 13:00 via Microsoft Teams. Salary: £29,433 (£36,791 FTE) [Deadline: 26 June at 12:00] Apply here

The minutes from the March 2026 meeting of the Reducing Reoffending Third Sector Advisory Group are now available. The meeting covered a wide range of topics including police governance reform, implementation of the Sentencing Act 2026, probation reform, electronic monitoring, and updates from voluntary sector organisations working across criminal justice. The minutes also include member and HMPPS updates, including the introduction of new seat holders. View the minutes here

Clinks is inviting voluntary sector organisations working in the criminal justice system in the South West and South Central to join their next Area Engagement Forum. These online forums bring together people and organisations from across the region to share experiences, swap ideas and tackle challenges together. Whether you want to showcase your organisation’s work, hear how others are navigating similar challenges, or simply connect with peers who understand the realities of working in criminal justice, all are welcome. Clinks members and partners are also welcome to present at the forum. If you would like to do so, contact rachel.austinfrancis@clinks.org. [9 June | 10:00 - 11:30 | Online | Free] Register here

The next Clinks Women’s Network Forum will bring together professionals, practitioners and people with lived experience to explore health and wellbeing for women in prison. The full-day in-person programme will include insights from lived experience on what truly works in supporting women’s health, updates on progress in health and social care in women’s prisons, and a panel discussion covering mental health, substance use, self-harm, recovery and culturally competent care. Sessions will also focus on chronic health conditions and ageing, pregnancy, maternity and midwifery care in prison, and new research on addressing self-harm. This is a free event for members of the Clinks Women’s Network. [16 June | 10:00 - 15:00 | HMP Askham Grange, York | Free | Clinks Women’s Network members only] Register here

The next Clinks Families Network Forum will focus on the untapped potential of family contact in prisons. HM Inspectorate of Prisons will present the findings and recommendations of their recently published Families Thematic Review, Safety, Well-being and Hope, with an opportunity to hear directly from the team and to consider how the findings can help shape future services. There will also be an opportunity to discuss the impact of the Sentencing Act on families. The forum provides support, information and networking opportunities for those supporting families in contact with the criminal justice system, as well as a broader network of agencies, academic institutions and community support services with an interest in the needs of families. Please note that Families Network Forums are only open to network members. [23 June | 10:00 - 12:00 | Online | Free] Register here

MEMBER FOCUS: Helix Arts

Helix Arts is a Newcastle-based arts charity that has been using art to create change since 1983. The charity believes that participation in creative activity is fundamental to the wellbeing of individuals and communities and should be accessible to all, particularly those with the fewest opportunities. Their work connects skilled artists with diverse groups of people to co-produce art that addresses personal and social issues, amplifies little-heard voices and contributes to genuine social change.

Helix Arts has recently won the National Trust Sycamore Gap Commission, following a national public vote and final decision by an expert judging panel. Their proposal, The People’s Tree, created in partnership with George King Architects, combines public participation, sound, architecture and storytelling to respond to the loss of the much-loved Sycamore Gap tree, which was illegally felled in September 2023. The project will invite people across the UK to record reflections on their own relationships with trees and nature, with the final compilation of stories and audio presented through exhibitions and workshops held to the north, south, east and west of Sycamore Gap. The completed work is expected to be realised by September 2027.

Find out more here

Recoop has published its annual review for 2025/26, reporting its strongest results to date in supporting older people in the criminal justice system. Over the year, Recoop supported 2,516 older people in custody, delivered 377,000 hours of Buddy Support, and recorded 6,541 footfall across its groups. Highlights include purposeful activity hours nearly tripling at HMP Altcourse, the North West Buddy Service exceeding its active Buddy target, and the Devon Buddy Service marking 15 consecutive years of delivery. The review also includes case studies illustrating the individual impact of Recoop’s programmes, from improved mobility to renewed social engagement. Read more here

This free one-hour webinar explores some of the most common problems people experience with Universal Credit, including why sanctions happen, how deductions affect payments, and what support may be available through hardship payments and other assistance. Using practical examples and real-life scenarios, the session will help frontline staff, advisers, support workers and anyone wanting to build confidence around Universal Credit issues to better understand the system and support people when difficulties arise. [16 July | Online | Free] Register here

This in-person panel discussion will consider the recent report Acquired Brain Injury: An Invisible Consequence of Domestic Abuse for Women in the Justice System. Report authors Dr Hope Kent and Professor Stan Gilmour will be joined by Dr Annmarie Burns, Consultant Clinical Neuropsychologist at brain injury charity Brainkind, to discuss the report’s findings and implications. Refreshments will be served before and after the discussion. [18 June | London EC2A 2EG | Free] To reserve your place, email list@prisonersadvice.org.uk

This in-person event promises a fascinating insight into leadership in prisons amidst unprecedented challenges. Confirmed speakers include Beverley Curry, Deputy Governor at HMP/YOI Low Newton; Gavin O’Malley, Group Director at HM Prison and Probation Service; Guy Pidduck, Governor of HMP/YOI Low Newton; and Melanie Stobbart, Governor of HMP and YOI Deerbolt, who will give an overview of change and transformation in the young people’s estate. [15 June | 09:30 - 13:00 | Low Newton Training Centre | Free] Register here

This CPD-accredited online course (7 points) is designed to help practitioners achieve better outcomes when welfare benefit decisions go wrong. It covers the process of challenging decisions, including Mandatory Reconsiderations and appeals, and how to build strong, evidence-based cases. The course includes real-life case studies, quizzes and practical exercises, and is suitable for welfare advisors, support workers, housing officers, case managers, health and social care professionals, and anyone supporting clients with benefit-related issues. [2 July | Online | £139.00 + VAT] Book here

Why me? is pleased to announce that its Complex Contexts Level 2 Restorative Justice training course is now available online. The fully accredited course runs across eight sessions, with the first module beginning on 16 June. [16 June - 1 July | Online | £500] Book here

CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM: Supervision of Indeterminate Sentences Policy Framework

A new policy framework for the supervision of indeterminate sentences was published on 1 June, setting out mandatory requirements for the Probation Service regarding all indeterminate sentenced offenders on licence. The framework covers the frequency of reporting, suspension of supervision, and the processes for licence termination referrals to the Parole Board for those serving Imprisonment for Public Protection and Detention for Public Protection sentences. Read more here

CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM: YJB Statement on Sentencing for Serious Offences

The Youth Justice Board issued a statement on 26 May acknowledging public concern following the sentencing in the Fordingbridge case. The YJB emphasised that while public concern must not be dismissed, individual judges and frontline youth justice services should not be unfairly critiqued for applying the legal framework. The statement highlighted the need to balance accountability, public protection, victim harm, deterrence and the prevention of future violence. Read more here

CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM: Too Many Children Face Short-term Remand

A new report by HM Inspectorate of Prisons, published on 27 May, found that children are too often held in custody while awaiting trial or sentencing, even when professionals believe they could be safely managed in the community. Between August 2024 and July 2025, 190 children were remanded to custody before being bailed, with almost half spending just two weeks or less in custody. The report highlighted that these short stays meant children received little or no access to meaningful education or support, and youth justice services were frequently not informed in time to arrange suitable bail packages. Read more here

CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM: Updated Guide on Terminating IPP and DPP Licences

The Prison Reform Trust, in partnership with the Howard League, Prisoners’ Advice Service and Dr Laura Janes KC, published an updated guide on terminating IPP and DPP licences on 1 June. The update reflects provisions in the Sentencing Act 2026 that reduce the qualifying period for licence termination from three years to two years for IPP sentences. It also outlines the new right to apply for a licence termination review for those who have had one continuous year on licence since their last annual review. Read more here

CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM: PPO Extends Deadline for Pregnant Women in Prison

The Prisons and Probation Ombudsman announced on 22 May that it has extended the deadline for its independent investigation into the use of restraints on women in prison during pregnancy-related hospital escorts. Women who were restrained during such escorts now have until [5 August 2026] to share their experiences. The PPO stated that pregnant women in prison should not be routinely restrained and encouraged anyone affected to come forward. Read more here

NON-MEMBERS’ EVENTS OR TRAINING: Rosa Summer Conference 2026

Rosa’s Summer Conference is a free online event for anyone who works in, supports or is interested in the women and girls sector. Across two days, the conference will bring inspiration from across the sector, opportunities to build new connections with peers and potential funders, and practical training that can be put straight to work. [16-17 June | Online | Free] Register here

FUNDING: Pears Youth Fund

The Pears Youth Fund is a partnership between Leeds Community Foundation, GiveBradford and Pears Foundation, supporting organisations that deliver youth work and promote youth voice, empowerment and activities. Two-year grants of £20,000 are available and can be used for core costs linked to work with young people, specific activities, or a mix of both. The majority of people supported through the project should be aged between 5 and 20, and applicants must have an income of between £30,000 and £850,000. Organisations based in Leeds or Bradford are prioritised, though organisations outside these areas may apply if they can demonstrate a clear link and track record in the area. [Deadline: 8 June] Apply here

FUNDING: Women’s Diversion Grant Funding - Invitation to Tender

The Ministry of Justice Invitation to Tender for the Women’s Diversion Grant Funding competition is anticipated to be published on Monday 15 June 2026 via the MoJ Jaggaer eSourcing Portal. To access the tender, register on the portal and search for ITT_10480. Organisations working to divert women away from the criminal justice system are encouraged to register ahead of publication. [Closing date: 17 July at 10:00] Register on the portal here

FUNDING: Violence Reduction Fund 2026

Community groups, social enterprises and non-profit organisations from across Barnsley, Doncaster, Rotherham and Sheffield are invited to apply for grants of up to £20,000 to support the delivery of projects over a 12-month period commencing 1 October 2026. Projects must help to prevent violence, reduce harm and support people to live safer, healthier lives. [Deadline: 26 June at 12:00] Apply here

FUNDING: Grassroots Grants

Groundwork, in association with Postcode Lottery, is offering unrestricted grants of between £500 and £2,000 for voluntary and community organisations with an annual turnover of no more than £25,000. Now in its third year, this flexible funding can be used where it is most needed and must be spent within 12 months. Priority will be given to organisations working with communities in the top 15% of the English Indices of Deprivation, and those working with marginalised or vulnerable communities. The programme cannot fund sports or physical activities-based projects. [Deadline: September 2026] Apply here

FUNDING: Black Funding Network Autumn 2026 Funder Event

Applications are open for the Black Funding Network Autumn 2026 Funder Event, taking place on 17 September 2026. Three organisations will be selected to introduce themselves at the event, with each receiving fundraising support, pitch coaching and marketing, and the potential to raise £6,000 or more in under two hours on the night. The Network is looking for small Black-led community organisations working to create social impact in the UK, with a commitment to racial equity, a compelling track record and a passion for community impact. [Deadline: 24 June at midnight] Apply here

FUNDING: UPLIFT Programme

Applications are open for the second year of the UPLIFT Programme, a free 12-month capacity-building programme designed to support Black, Asian and Mixed Heritage-led organisations across London. Supported by City Bridge Foundation’s Anchor Programme, UPLIFT provides fully-funded support including 21 hours of bespoke one-to-one consultancy, expert-led group learning workshops, action learning and peer support, and practical guidance across governance, income generation, communications, impact, AI, policy and influencing. 

The programme is open to organisations led by and for Black, Asian and Mixed Heritage communities, focused on criminal justice, employment, education or youth programmes, and working with an annual income of between £50,000 and £200,000. Applications involve a single Expression of Interest only, with no interview stage. [Deadline: 4 June at 17:00] Apply here

PACT is seeking a qualified accountant with senior-level experience in finance, audit, risk or governance (for example, as a CFO, Finance Director, Finance Partner, Audit Partner or senior risk leader) to join their team as a Trustee and Chair of the Finance Risk and Audit Committee. [Part time, Voluntary, National]. You'll bring a strong grasp of financial management, internal control and risk, the ability to interpret complex financial information and challenge constructively, and the interpersonal skills to build positive relationships across the Board and Executive. You will play a pivotal role in supporting the Board to make confident strategic financial decisions. Find out more and apply here by 9th July 2026

FEATURED VACANCY: Experienced Self Employment Tutor 

Entrepreneurs Unlocked CIC is seeking an experienced tutor to deliver its self-employment programme at HMP Ashfield in Pucklechurch near Bristol. [Part time 2 days per week, £35,000 - £40,000 FTE]. The tutor enables learners to explore self-employment as a means of earning a legitimate income and develop a plan they can use in the future. In this role you will also complete a range of administration tasks as required to ensure compliance with the regime, including organising learner schedules, messaging learners, completing attendance records as well as liaising with other deliver partners. For context HMP Ashfield is a Cat C prison, with 410 people all who are convicted of a sexual offence. Find out more and apply here by 30th June 2026

StandOut is seeking a compassionate individual to join their team [Full time, £29,000, London]. In this role you will provide vital support to people who have completed our course in prison and are now in the community working to find the stability they need to realise their potential, achieve their goals and rebuild their lives after prison. You will help shape our offer to participants, drawing on your experiences and creativity and working with our other Coaches to trial new approaches. This role is ideal for someone with a good understanding of the challenges faced by those caught up in the criminal justice system, gained through personal experience, paid work or volunteering. Find out more and apply here by 15th June 2026

Substance Use Practitioner with Phoenix Futures [£26298, NR1 4LU, full time]; Mentor (Finance, Benefit & Debt, North East) with The Wise Group [£25664, North East England, full time]; Housing Officer - CAS3 with Julian House [£28934, Somerset, full time]; Apprentice Keyworker with The Nelson Trust [£24500, Gloucester, part time]; Research and policy officer with Transform Justice [£29000 to £32000, Remote with regular meetings in London, full time]; Senior Engagement Officer with St Giles Trust [£29500, Aberdulais, Wales, part time]; Specialist Prison & Probation Advocate with ADVANCE (Advocacy and Non-Violence Community Education) [£27000 to £29000, HMP Bronzefield, part time]; National Criminal Justice Arts Alliance (NCJAA) Coordinator with Clinks [£29433, Remote with occasional travel for meetings, part time]; Substance Use Practitioner with Phoenix Futures [£26298, L9 7LH, full time]; Community Coach with StandOut [£29000, London, full time].

For more information about these vacancies, and many more, click here

READS OF THE WEEK:

EXTRA INFORMATION:

About Clinks Light Lunch

This edition of Light Lunch has been sent to the inbox of 8,321 people working (or with an interest) in the criminal justice system of England and Wales.
If you would like to include something in a future edition of Light Lunch, use our submission form.
Get involved Become a Member | Follow Clinks on Twitter
Contact us www.clinks.org | info@clinks.org | 020 4502 6774
Click here to manage your subscriptions. For assistance, email info@clinks.org
Registered office: 82A James Carter Road, Mildenhall, Suffolk, IP28 7DE 
Registered charity: 1074546 | Company limited by guarantee in England & Wales: 3562176
© Clinks, 2026

Clinks logo