UK - High Risk Offenders - SWM Probation Managing Risk in the Community

Video Description:
The management of high-risk or dangerous offenders is understandably a matter of significant public concern. The Probation Service carries out detailed assessments on offenders using an electronic process called OASys -- Offender Assessment System. This enables Probation staff to assess both the factors that contribute to an individual's offending and the potential level of harm that individual represents.

A small proportion of offenders may be assessed as potentially representing a high or very high risk of harm. Many of these offenders will remain in prison for an indefinite period. However, some will have received a fixed term of imprisonment. If they are considered unsuitable for Parole or other early relase they will be kept in custody until the end of the custodial part of their sentence and then be released into the community.

Offenders assessed as high risk and convicted of sexual/violent offences will normally be managed in the community through MAPPA (Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements). This process brings together a panel of staff from different agencies who share information and develop a joint management plan for the individual, taking into account a range of issues including victim and child safeguarding concerns.

These arrangements aim to reduce individual offenders potential risk of causing harm and demonstrate the effectiveness of partnership working to protect local communities.