Scottish Advisory Panel on Offender Rehabilitation (SAPOR): interim report 2023

4. Overview of 2023

Changes in Panel Membership

SAPOR has recently undergone notable changes in its panel membership due to the conclusion of the terms of the previous Chair and two Panel Members. These transitions mark a significant juncture in SAPOR's journey, characterised by the infusion of fresh perspectives, expertise, and leadership into the Panel's composition.

The outgoing Chair and Panel Members have played pivotal roles in advancing offender rehabilitation in Scotland. Their contributions have left an indelible mark on SAPOR's work and legacy. Their dedication and commitment are deeply appreciated.

With the arrival of new Panel Members, SAPOR is poised to enter a new phase of growth and innovation. The newcomers bring a diverse array of skills and experiences from various sectors, including justice, social work, psychology, and academia. Their presence promises to reinvigorate SAPOR's mission and to meet the evolving challenges in the realm of crime reduction.

COVID-19 Recovery

SAPOR has navigated the challenging landscape of the COVID-19 pandemic with resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to its mission. The pandemic presented unforeseen challenges to offender rehabilitation, but it also underscored the importance of our work in supporting desistance and reducing reoffending during such trying times.

As we embark on the path of COVID-19 recovery, SAPOR is focused on several key areas:

• Adapting to New Realities: We recognise that the pandemic has reshaped the landscape of offender rehabilitation. SAPOR is committed to adapting to these new realities, whether through innovative programme delivery methods or responding to wider emerging needs in the field.
• Leveraging Information Technology: The pandemic has provided a welcome acceleration of the adoption of information technology in the justice system. SAPOR will seek to ensure that benefits from the increased use of information technology are further realised.
• Supporting Mental Health: The impact of the pandemic on mental health has been profound. SAPOR is dedicated to addressing the mental health needs of those involved in offender rehabilitation and promoting well-being throughout the system.
• Learning from the Crisis: The pandemic has offered valuable lessons. SAPOR is committed to learning from this experience and integrating these lessons into our strategies, ensuring that we are more prepared to navigate future challenges.
• Collaborating with Partners: SAPOR recognises the importance of collaboration. We will continue to work closely with justice partners, community organisations, and professionals to build a stronger, more resilient offender rehabilitation network.
• Communications: there are opportunities for us to further enhance our communications with the wider field and to seek innovative ways to disseminate the work and profile of SAPOR to further extend its ultimate impact on crime reduction and disseminate evidence informed approaches more widely.

As we recover from the pandemic, SAPOR is committed to emerging stronger, more adaptable, and more innovative than ever in our pursuit of our critical mission.

Reaccreditation of the Caledonian System

SAPOR is pleased to provide an overview of our recent efforts in reaccrediting the Caledonian System, a vital initiative aimed at addressing domestic abuse perpetrated by men towards their women partners or ex-partners.

Our Panel, in collaboration with justice partners, has undertaken a rigorous process of reaccreditation, reaffirming the quality and effectiveness of the Caledonian System. This programme plays a pivotal role in reducing reoffending, enhancing the well-being of women, children, and the men involved, and fostering safer communities.

The reaccreditation process involved a meticulous evaluation of the Caledonian System, encompassing its objectives, impact, and adherence to evidence-informed practices. The Panel Members closely examined the programme's components, including the Men's Service, Women's Service, and Children's Service, to ensure they continue to meet the highest standards of offender rehabilitation and domestic abuse intervention.

SAPOR is proud to report that the Caledonian System has not only maintained its accreditation but has also demonstrated a commitment to ongoing improvement. The reaccreditation process has reaffirmed the programme's crucial role in addressing the challenging area of domestic abuse, supporting desistance, and contributing to a safer Scotland as part of wider contributions to crime reduction.