The UK justice system is firefighting on multiple fronts. Eroding public safety, court backlogs exceeding 400,000, together with a record-high prison population paints a concerning picture. Labour’s 2024 manifesto echoes this concern, pledging to restore neighbourhood policing, prioritise victim support, and utilise technology for a more efficient system. Make Time Count supports these goals, offering a three-pronged approach:
- Developing and utilising innovative technology.
- Empowering victims and Police to use out of court resolutions for low level crimes.
- Leveraging the wonderful community organisations to create collaborative community justice partnerships.
Technology for a Smarter Justice System
First and foremost, Labour acknowledges the need for police to embrace technology. Our innovative platform provides a readily available solution, fostering data-driven decision-making and improved collaboration between all stakeholders in the criminal justice system, aligning with Labour’s strategy of utilising technology to modernise policing.
Our platform incorporates robust needs assessments and connects victims and offenders with relevant support organisations. This strengthens the partnership between police forces, probation services, and community organisations. The platform’s assessment tools equip police to identify suitable candidates for community-based solutions, reducing court backlogs, another priority for the Labour Party. Additionally, the platform acts as a central hub, facilitating communication and information sharing, fostering a more collaborative approach to tackling recidivism.
Empowering Victims and Police Through OoCRs
Labour’s 2024 manifesto recognises the importance of victims’ rights, following the timely Victims’ Bill passed earlier this year. Lengthy time to court, lack of transparency and high reoffending leaves victims feeling unheard and dissatisfied. Make Time Count integrates clear sentencing guidelines, inclusion of victim’s wishes and provides improved support for victims.
Our Eligibility Screening Tool empowers police with clear criteria for determining the most suitable outcome. Freeing up valuable time for building community relationships, a cornerstone of Labour’s neighbourhood policing strategy. Additionally, clear sentencing guidelines alongside other options empower victims with knowledge of the process, potential outcomes, and their role. This can lead to increased participation, satisfaction, and a greater sense of agency.
Breaking the Cycle: Community Justice Partnerships
A small number of prolific, low-level offenders create a significant strain on resources. Traditional courts often fail to address the root causes of their behaviour. Here, Labour’s vision for community justice partnerships aligns perfectly with Make Time Count’s approach.
Unlike courts, community justice partnerships address the fundamental issues causing crime. They leverage existing community resources and partner with third-sector organisations to provide targeted interventions like drug rehabilitation, mental health support, and job training. Our platform facilitates seamless collaboration between all stakeholders, ensuring swift and effective responses to low-level offences.
Evaluation by West Midlands Police suggests a 70% reduction in reoffending when OoCRs divert low-risk offenders from court. This not only saves money but also frees up resources for more serious crimes, getting officers back on the streets.
Conclusion: A Brighter Future
This comprehensive approach – streamlined OoCRs, collaborative community justice partnerships, and technological advancements – has the potential to transform the justice system. It can make it more efficient, victim-centred, and focused on rehabilitation. By utilising technology and prioritising community engagement, we can build a more efficient and effective justice system that empowers police and probation services, improves victim experience, and ultimately fosters safer communities.
The good news? We don’t have to wait years to develop this solution. Make Time Count’s platform is available now. Labour’s political commitment to more Police Officers and PCSOs, combined with Make Time Count’s OoCR platform, creates a unique opportunity to transform the justice system. This collaborative approach empowers police, fosters community trust, reduces crime, and addresses the root causes of offending behaviour. Make Time Count stands ready to partner with the new Labour government to deliver a more just and secure future.