‘What Works?’: Revisiting the evidence in England and Wales

Source: (2004) Probation Journal: The Journal of Community and Criminal Justice. Vol 51(1): 7-20.

This article reviews the evidence that has been published in the last three years relating to the effectiveness of ‘What Works?’ or evidence-based interventions with offenders in the Probation, Prison and Youth Justice Services in England and Wales. It concludes that the evidence of programmes having an impact on re-offending is patchy, although a number show improvements in intermediate outcomes such as employment and literacy. There are indications that to be effective programmes need to be well targeted and supported, and reinforced by good case management. More studies remain to be completed, and it is too early to say what works, what doesn’t, and what is promising. Author’s abstract.