TERMS OF REFERENCE

Purpose and vision

The purpose of Local Criminal Justice Board’s (LCJB’s) is to provide a unique opportunity for partners to work together in the common interest to improve the CJS in the local area.

Vision

‘To provide fair, efficient and effective criminal justice services in Bedfordshire and the best possible service to victims of crime and witnesses.’

The Bedfordshire Criminal Justice Board (“the Board”) will;

➢ Enable improved communication
➢ Enable cooperation and collaboration between partners
➢ Share Best Practice – Local, Regional, National
➢ Identify and respond to concerns and risks in the system

“We will support each other in delivering against the national, regional and local Strategy, Guidance and Action Plans including the local Police and Crime plan, with the aim of reducing offending and reoffending, and increasing public confidence in the Criminal Justice System” (CJS).

Administrative Arrangements

The Bedfordshire Criminal Justice Board will:

• Hold quarterly meetings (as a minimum).
• Be supported by effective sub-groups, where necessary, to drive activity on behalf of the LCJB.
• Be governed by a Terms of Reference which will be reviewed every annually by the Chair and Members (or more regularly should that be required).
• Agree a Business Plan or formal ‘Action Plan’ setting out the LCJB’s strategic priorities, how it will meet its priorities and how it will measure its success.

1 National Guidance for Criminal Justice Boards – Para. 5

Produce minutes of each meeting and ensure they are an accurate reflection of the discussion and agreed actions.
Publish minutes of BCJB on the OPCC website once approved by the Board.

Membership

To be fully effective, LCJBs should include membership at a senior level from all CJS partners. The Bedfordshire Criminal Justice Board will be comprised of local decision makers including:

• Bedfordshire Office of the Police Crime Commissioner (Chair)
• Bedfordshire Fire & Rescue
• Bedfordshire Police
• Citizens Advice Bureau
• Crown Prosecution Service
• Defence
• Department of Work & Pensions
• East London Foundation Trust (Mental Health Service)
• Hertfordshire Police
• HM Courts & Tribunal Service (Crown Court & Magistrates)
• HMP Bedford
• Integrated Care, Bedfordshire Luton and Milton Keynes (BLMK)
• Local Authorities (Bedford, Central Bedfordshire & Luton)
• Probation Service
• Public Health Commissioners (Drug & Alcohol)
• Victim Support
• Youth Offending

Invitations to attend BCJB meetings by representatives from other relevant groups will be made by exception, where relevant topics are to be discussed and these additional partners could add value to the discussions and decision-making. Visitors at meetings will not be able to cast a vote. The OPCC cannot meet any expenses in respect of visitor's attendance.

2 National Guidance for Criminal Justice Boards, Para. 6-8

The core members of the BCJB will have the power to co-opt any partner to the Board on a temporary or permanent basis where his/ her work impacts on that of the Board, and the co-optee must be proposed and seconded by two core member of the Board and elected as a member, for either a temporary or permanent period of time, by a majority of the core membership.

The Police and Crime Commissioner’s place on the Board is for the current term of their office.

Expectations of Members

LCJB members must actively engage in board meetings and help to facilitate a collaborative approach to the local CJS. Members are expected to:

• Attend Board meetings with authority to speak on behalf of their organisation
• Where a Board member is unable to attend, he or she will delegate attendance, participation and executive
• powers to a senior executive member of staff, as appropriate.
• Provide expected reports by no later than 10 days prior to the respective meeting
• Share data and analysis as appropriate and necessary to enable the LCJB to fulfil its role
• Drive actions between meetings
• Refer, on behalf of their organisation, emerging local CJS issues to the LCJB for discussion
• Work with local, regional and national counterparts as necessary to identify and overcome barriers to improving the delivery of justice
• Be accountable, to the Board, for any work done in LCJB sub-groups
• Champion the work of the LCJB within their organisation
• At all times, members must respect policing, prosecutorial and judicial independence and decision-making.

Meetings

BCJB meetings will take place every three months, in accordance with the financial year calendar. Meetings will be held virtually via Teams or at venues provided by members of the Board. Arrangements will be made prior to the start of the financial year and calendar invitations sent by the OPCC.

3 National Guidance for Criminal Justice Boards – Para. 9-10

A Board meeting will be quorate where four or more core members are present.
Chief Officers or their nominated deputies will have full voting rights. For a decision to be made there must be a majority of the Board in favour of the proposal. The Chair will not have a casting vote.

Standing Agenda Items will be as follows:

• 
  Performance Updates - From His Majesty’s Courts and Tribunal Service and the Chairs of the Board’s subgroups:
  Themed Items - To be agreed by the BCJB Partnership
• Partner reports by exception – Covering what is working well in the system, issues for the attention of the Board, Horizon scanning for what is working well locally, regionally and at a national level.
• PCC Report
• Updates on Emerging Legislation
• Draft formal minutes of each Board meeting will be produced within 10 working days by the Support Team and circulated to all Board members to consider. Final minutes will be provided with the papers for the following meeting at the latest. Minutes will be consistent with the Freedom of Information Act 2000.

Role of the Chair

Section 10 of the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 places a duty on PCCs and other criminal justice bodies to “provide an efficient and effective CJS for the police area”.

In March 2022, the PCC Review (Part 2), carried out by the Home Office, identified LCJBs as a critical vehicle to empower PCCs with the levers to bring together criminal justice partners to effectively tackle crime. By taking a leading role in local CJS partnership arrangements, PCCs can help CJS partners and agencies promote positive improvements to the system, seek to align priorities and address cross-cutting local criminal justice issues.
The Chair should demonstrate strong leadership and establish a collaborative forum that supports joint working and improves services across the CJS, whilst respecting the fact that they do not have the authority to manage or direct other individual agencies.

To achieve this, the Chair has the following convening responsibilities, all of which should be carried out in consultation with Board members:

To set, implement, and review the LCJB’s Terms of Reference

4 National Guidance for Criminal Justice Boards, Para. 11-15

• To establish in consultation with CJS partners, an agreed LCJB Business Plan or formal ‘Action Plan’ and, where appropriate, hold partners to account for its delivery where actions are agreed collectively.
• To ensure the LCJB decides how to engage positively with relevant national programmes.
• To discuss, where appropriate, the strategic plans of individual criminal justice organisations so that inter-dependencies can be identified, and plans can be aligned.
• Where appropriate, to foster discussion of decisions being taken by individual criminal justice organisations which are likely to affect the operational efficiency and effectiveness of the local CJS

Delivery mechanism

The Board has three agreed strategic work streams. Each work stream has a SRO from the Board who takes responsibility for feeding back on a regular basis to the Board. These work streams will be reviewed on an annual basis or as required:

• Victims and Witnesses (includes domestic abuse, restorative justice and out-of-court disposals) (Chaired by Bedfordshire Police)
• Reducing Reoffending (Chaired by Probation)

Each of the strategic work groups will have its own terms of reference, delivery/ improvement/ implementation plan and will identify linkages between them and with other partners’ plans to ensure efficient delivery.
Board members will arrange for their own staff to provide data and written reports for this performance report.
The BCJB will look to develop collaborative arrangements with other LCJBs.

Performance analysis and/or input into themes will be agreed to be discussed at future Board meetings.
Financial accountability

The OPCC will cover the costs of the basic administration of the BCJB going forward.

Victims Code

The Victims Code sets out a minimum level of service that criminal justice bodies must provide to victims of crime, including families bereaved by crime. The Victims Strategy assigns PCCs formal responsibility for monitoring the compliance of CJS bodies with the requirements in the Victims Code.

The BCJB will be used as a forum for identifying issues and determining effective local interventions.

Data sharing

Sharing data across organisations is vital to reducing crime, supporting victims and witnesses and improving criminal justice outcomes. Data is integral to partner's joint-responsibility to maintain the operational efficiency and effectiveness of the local CJS.

The BCJB will use data to identify emerging local trends or patterns so that partners can better plan, adapt to meet challenges and drive system improvement.

Complaints

Any complaints received will first be considered by the Chair, to ascertain whether it should be directed to a specific agency. Where this is the case, the complaint will be sent to the relevant Board member for actions. All Board members will receive a copy of the response.

Membership

To be fully effective, LCJBs should include membership at a senior level from all CJS partners. The Bedfordshire Criminal Justice Board will be comprised of local decision makers including:

• Bedfordshire Office of the Police Crime Commissioner (Chair)
• Bedfordshire Fire & Rescue
• Bedfordshire Police
• Citizens Advice Bureau
• Crown Prosecution Service
• Defence
• Department of Work & Pensions
• East London Foundation Trust (Mental Health Service)
• Hertfordshire Police
• HM Courts & Tribunal Service (Crown Court & Magistrates)
• HMP Bedford
• Integrated Care, Bedfordshire Luton and Milton Keynes (BLMK)
• Local Authorities (Bedford, Central Bedfordshire & Luton)
• Probation Service
• Public Health Commissioners (Drug & Alcohol)
• Victim Support
• Youth Offending

 

Agenda

Present:

John Tizard JT) Bedfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner
Alan Pooley (AP) Judiciary (on-line)
Charlotte Ball (CB) Bedford Borough, Central Bedfordshire & Milton
Keynes Public Health (in-person)
Ciara Mole (CM) Beds Drug & Alcohol Coordinator (in-person)
Dave Collins DCS) Luton YoT (on-line)
Francoise Julian FJ BCJB Business Manager in person)
Ian Murray IM HMCTS Crown Court (on-line)
Jessica Hart JH) CPS, Representing Lisa Ramsarran (on-line)
John MurphyJM) Bedfordshire Police (in-person)
Kate Somarakiss HMCTS Magistrates Court (on-line)
Kerry White (KW HMCTS Crown Court (on-line)
Lara Lewis (LL PCC Staff Officer (Minute Taker) (in-person)
Layla Allen (LA) Citizens Advice Bureau (on-line)
Lisa Jenkins LJ) Head of Probation (in-person)
Nicola Bayliss (NB) Bedfordshire OPCC Restorative Justice (on-line)
Pat Jennings PJ) Bedfordshire YoT (on-line)
Sarah-Louise Bott SLB HMP Bedford (on-line)
Stuart Firth (SFHMP Bedford (in-person)

Apologies:

Lisa Ramsarran, Represented by Jessica Hart
Sarah Pacey, Public Health Luton
Jolene Jefferson, Public Health Luton

Minutes of previous meeting, BCJB Work Programme, Actions and Risk
Logs*
Minutes from the previous meeting; 15 July 2024, agreed as accurate.

Action item 24/25-08: Update following launch of this service on 6 August 2024

HMP Bedford Assertive Outreach Service Update - SF highlighted:
−−− Now have one full time officer and a bespoke multidisciplinary service that has been live for about 2 months
−−− Psychologist in post
−−− Awaiting a mental health nurse
−−− Reduction in violence already showing
−−−Risk––– need admin support for a Teams referral service
−−− Risk - difficult to find safe spaces in prisons to hold consultations
−−− Looking to continue the service for the prison leavers out in the community. Can we use partner spaces e.g. at police venues to hold interventions?

Following discussion, it was agreed that project was supported and would be referred to MAPPA.

Action: SF to present the HMP Bedford Assertive Outreach Programme to the Bedfordshire MAPPA.

4 CJS Performance/Scrutiny* BCJB Work streams Highlight Reports
Reporting by exception on work being progressed by the BCJB Work streams and
areas of risk/concern.

ZB presented report on Victims & Witnesses - ZB highlighted:
−−− Meeting with Herts and Essex force leads to understand impact of the pilot they have run
−−− Shaping our own strategy, developing a dashboard around VCOP 12 rights

- Force Victims Board now in place looking at victim feedback and areas for development. Scrutiny panels in place for victims across MVAWG RASSO and OOCD

−−− Victim and Witness Engagement Board looks at broader partnership working

Action: Will have a new governance in place by 21 November. ZB to share
presentation to share with PCC.

Following discussion, the dashboard was supported, and it was agreed that governance arrangements should fit with the mission board for victims.

FJ presented report on Performance and Programme Management FJ highlighted:
−−− New data sharing agreements finalised by the APCC between OPCC’s, Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) and Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service HMPS) and refreshed the Memorandum of Understanding MoU); Granting OPCCs access to important data tools, to help PCC’s develop and deliver their Police and Crime Plan, Regional Reducing Reoffending Plan, and Local Criminal Justice Board LCJB) Priorities.

−−− This data can support improving accountability against measures which could in turn improve court performance, timeliness, better resource efficiency, and so contribute to the overall effectiveness of the criminal justice system in the area.

−−− Use of the data could also inform the co-commissioning activity to better address rehabilitation and resettlement needs specific to your area.

Action: FJ to report back on progress regarding processing this new data
and initial findings

FJ presented report on Reducing Reoffending FJ highlighted:

A small cohort of the Reducing Reoffending Board, met to look at progress on the work relating to the Transitions Work stream and to agree the way forward for the Reducing Reoffending subgroup. The following was discussed and agreed;
−−− Reducing Reoffending Sub group–– Will return to its previous format, working with the agreed Strategy and Priorities.
−−− Transitions - Looking at support for young adults (18+) year olds, transitioning from Youth Offending to Probation or into the Community.

••• Probation Young Adult Support Workers YASW) primarily work with the IOM cohort
••• Bedford/Central YoT have a Probation YASW embedded, Luton waiting allocation
••• Work ongoing with both YoTs and Probation to source a transition worker with the right skill set to bridge both services.

Pan Bedfordshire Drug and Alcohol Criminal Justice Pathways Group
––– Established and previously chaired by Charlotte Ball, Public Health Bedford/Central. The work of chairing this group has now been formally handed over to Ciara Mole, Bedfordshire Combating Drugs Partnership Co-Ordinator.

−−− Women in the Criminal Justice System–– Part of the Board’s ongoing work programme, being progressed by Bedfordshire Police and the OPCC

••• Outline business case prepared and submitted to the NPCC for potential Star funding for a diversion worker, to triage perpetrators from the CJS where they have been identified as offending as a result of being victims of domestic abuse or exploitation.

−−− Action Item 24/25-07 Support for Prison Leavers– – Task group consisting of colleagues from Public Health, Housing, Prison and Probation met on 10 September 2024.

−−− Group to explore the potential for an information booklet for prison leavers;
••HMP Bedford/Probation to provide templates of the crib sheets given to prison leavers
••HMP Bedford to undertake a prison survey to capture the voice of the service user
−−− Meeting arranged with Housing (Bedford, Central and Luton),
Probation and colleagues from the HMPS to look at;
••• A Bedfordshire Housing Protocol
••• A Bedfordshire Housing Navigator in line with the Ipswich Navigator model
−−− Public Health Bedford/Central and Luton currently working on a Pan Bedfordshire MoU with Prison Healthcare for drug and alcohol support for prison leavers, the final product to be presented to the Criminal Justice Board once signed off.

−−− Reducing Reoffending subgroup/partnership, are currently supporting HMP Bedford through the Drug and Alcohol Work stream with:
••• Pathways for Prison leavers and the prison’s assertive outreach programme
••• Exploring implementation of amnesty bins within HMP Bedford to reduce offending and the risk of serious harm within the prison, support rehabilitation and reinforce the messages in their respective communities that serious violence is not acceptable in society.
••HMPP Peterborough will now be taking prisoners from Luton; A contact has been identified, who will join HMP Bedford and BCJB colleagues, looking at reducing reoffending amongst prison leavers.

BCJB To Note and/or Action:

SDS4000 Risks
−−− Additional pressures of SDS4000 on probation: Impact on general prison leavers, staff, caseloads and recovery plan.
−−− Focus on SDS4000 highlighting the risk to individuals on general release not getting support. e.g., Many released without accommodation needs being met.
−−− Individuals having access to suitable accommodation i.e., risks not only relating to housing provisions but also ensuring that the accommodation is fit for purpose e.g., placing addicts with individuals convicted of drug dealing has caused some to make themselves
homeless in order to remain drug free following release.
−−− Individuals having access to pharmacies on release

Chair’s Out of Court disposals report - ZB highlighted:
The Report was noted. Police responded to highlight that all out of court disposal outcomes are closely scrutinised; It was agreed that in future reports these reports will be written jointly with the Police and Out of Court Disposals Chair for context.
Action: ZB to meet with OoCD Chair to discuss and draft future BCJB reports.
Action: Agenda item to review governance arrangements for this board.

Theme:* Whole Systems Approach
PCC presented Bedfordshire Police and Crime Plan PCC highlighted:
−−− Theme of social justice––– whole system change
−−− Collaboration needed
−−− 6 missions. One of which is excellence in the criminal justice system
−−− Over the next six months we are looking to:
••• Focus the LCJB on problem solving, and putting victims at the heart of the system
••• Agree shared objectives for improving criminal justice across the county within the current regulatory and resource constraints
••• Identify proposals to put to government to improve outcomes through regulatory and funding changes
••• Work with partners to review the specialist services in place to support victims of serious sexual offences and domestic abuse

2025––– 2028 will:
−−− Develop a ten-year strategy for criminal justice through the LCJB

- Adopt a cross-system plan for alternative methods of disposal.

Following discussion, the Plan was supported and it was agreed that a development day would be held to help align CJB to police and crime plan mission.

Action: FJ PCC to set up development day.

JM presented report on Continuity of Care and Support for Prison Leavers–––
SDS4000 Gold Group JM highlighted:
−−− Tranche 1 - some of the concern we had about volume of release has not materialised. At last count we had no crimes attributable to those released
−−− Tranche 2 - due imminently and we were expecting around 20 but those who do not fall into violent sex offenders which leaves mostly PWITS etc and could be an issue for those related to gangs etc. Victims being assessed and what additional measures needed.

- Gold group now stood down as content with partnership arrangements and all checks completed
−−− Now working as BAU––– more to be released on 22.10 then release to occur at 40% of sentence

Following discussion, the report was supported and the need for shaping public understanding was noted as well as the risk of extra workload for local youth offending teams

CB presented report on key updates on Pan Bedfordshire Drug and Alcohol Criminal Justice Pathways Group - CB highlighted:

−−− Continuity of Care Self-assessment audit has been completed. To address the areas for development, an MOU between prison and community treatment providers is being developed by the end of Q3.
−−− This includes ensuring that the pathways take account of people leaving custody with drug and alcohol treatment and continuing care in community. Looking at governance and data management and attrition.
−−− Ensuring that when someone is released, they have prescriptions in place etc.
−−− In Bedford Borough and Central Bedfordshire, a new drug and alcohol post has been funded through the SS MTRGG to be co located with the Bedfordshire Youth Offending Service.

Following discussion, the report was supported, and it was agreed that ELFTTT and CGLLL (drug and alcohol treatment providers) should be invited to operational meetings for SCS4000 as safeguarding victim liaison.

LJ presented Probation Action Plan Update to include impact of SDS4000 on Staff workloads, responding to HMIP - Inspection of Probation Services in Bedfordshire LJ highlighted:
−−LJ new in role

- Inspection rated as requires improvement. 3 areas were inadequate.
−−− Low scores for ‘risk of harm’ - how we are obtaining info from agencies and individuals and how we will manage them.
−−− Bedfordshire not out of line with rest of the country
−−− Staffing gaps are significantly challenging
−−− Qualified officers are managing 170% of case load
−−− Exceptional delivery model in place until February
−−− 10 officers set to qualify in December and some recruitment underway
−−− A lot of work to do around culture, diversity and inclusion
−−− Looking to continue strengthening partnership working
−−− New structure in place

Following discussion around how partners can support, the report was supported, and Chair noted ‘big repair job needed’ SF offered to share learning from previous HMP Bedford inspection report.

Action: SF to share learning with LJ.

AOB
−−− New OPCC CEO
−−− Reduction in sitting days for Crown Court

- Report due on court backlog to be provided when data cleansing of software complete
−−HMPP Peterborough to begin servicing all Luton courts

BEDFORDSHIRE CRIMINAL JUSTICE BOARD

Date: Monday 15 July 2024

Venue: Bedfordshire Police HQ / Hybrid Meeting

Agenda

Present:

John Tizard (JT) - CHAIR Bedfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner
John Murphy (JM) ACC Bedfordshire Police Service
Lisa Ramsarran (LR) Chief Crown Prosecutor
Dave Collins (DCS) Luton Borough Council
Craig Austin (CA) Housing
Anna Bruce (AB) Interim Head of Probation
Nick Titchener (NT) Lawton’s Solicitors
Kerry White (KW) HMCTS (Crown Court)
Matt Thompson (MT) Hertfordshire Police
Kate Somarakis (KS) HMCTS Magistrates
Susan Childerhouse (SC) Central Bedfordshire Council
Zara Brown (ZB) Bedfordshire Police
Pat Jennings (PJ) Bedford Borough Council
Ian Miller (IM) HMCTS (Crown Court)
Nicola Bayliss (NB) Bedfordshire OPCC
Richard Vaughan (RV) Youth Justice Board
Stuart Firth (SF) Prison Service
Toni Montgomery-Johnson (TMJ) Legal Aid Agency
Layla Allen (LA) Citizens Advice Bureau

Apologies:

Jolene Jefferson (LBC)
Sarah Ball
Sarah Bott

Welcome, Introduction and Apologies:

Chairs opening remarks
JT welcomed all to the BCJB meeting

JT set out his expectations and requested where possible all members of the BCJB attend in person, as agreed at the June Board.

Minutes from Previous Meeting and Action Log:

Minutes from the previous meetings; 19 December Board, AGM and 3 June were agreed as accurate.

A small number of actions outstanding (in amber), will be progressed in Q2.

Performance Updates

HMCTS Update by IM/KW
IM provided information regarding the overarching figures.
Crown Court Outstanding Cases: Luton currently has 812 trials outstanding, 223 custody and 589 bail. Priorities remain with ‘Custody Time Limits’ (CTL) cases.
Action: ZB asked HMCTS to provide a breakdown of the types of offenses involved as the issue of outstanding trials relates to victim care. IM/KW

Rape and Serious Sexual Offences (RASSO): A high priority. Older cases are monitored and listed to be heard as soon as practicable. Sittings are at maximum capacity with 8 to 9 courts across multiple sights.

RASSO cases being pushed through the courts due to backlog, possibly a lot of Domestic Abuse (DA) cases some over two years. ZB to report on moving forward, KW to provide additional info.

Crown Court Listings: The courts are working with Judiciary regarding contact with defendants at pre-trial reviews (PTR), to deal with anything out of court where possible.

−Various challenges impact on listings including, extension requests, CPS shortage, Doctor reports (fitness), prisoners refusing to attend from prison, achieving best evidence (ABE) disclosure and non-compliance issues.
− Currently looking at efficiency to run effective trials. Biggest issues are non-attendance by defendants for bail cases (possibly due to the age of the case).

PCC asked how does the 812 outstanding trials compare with other courts nationally? What is the trajectory and what time scales are we looking at?

− KW - Advised that compared with Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire, Luton is mid table within the region and going up, however on par with other areas.

ZB asked about the reason for the increase and the evidence base. IM responding stated that nothing stands out; KS responded.

− Magistrates are seeing an increase in remands in the Magistrates’ Courts; Cases coming through which are new to the system but also seeing improvements in days to complete
cases.
− There are concerns regarding case disposal rates; Figures are going down and getting more cases coming through.
− There is the need to improve our effective trial rate. National guidance is 50%, ours around 39%.

ZB asked if the courts had identified the reasons for the low effective trial rate. KS responding stated that there are a number of reasons, such as high cracked rate (around 30%) and tactical decisions for defendants, changing pleas on the day of trial.

− One of the challenges for HMCTS is Legal Advisor retention but there will also be the increase in Court listings in Magistrates’ Court from October.

JT noted that it would be useful to have a breakdown in terms of how we compare regionally and nationally. What are some of the challenges. As a system there is a need for a better understanding of where we are.

KS asked for caution when looking at comparative data as the landscape for Bedfordshire is very different to our neighbours Herts and Thames Valley. JT agreed, adding that comparison is an indicator and encourages questions.

Action: IM/KW to provide a more detailed court report for the next meeting, to address the concerns discussed above. IM/KW

Victims & Witnesses Subgroup by ZB
PCC invited ZB to give an update on the Board’s Victims and Witnesses Work stream.
Rape & Serious Sexual Offences (RASSO): RASSO child trial readiness meetings taking place 12 weeks before hearings.
Bedfordshire Victim Care Service (BVCS): BVCS have a detective inspector in post specifically working on Victims and Witnesses along with 3 others looking at Witness Care with BVCS

Hestia: Hestia offers confidential Support for victims in crisis, being introduced in beds 12-month pilot linked with Blue Bell.

Out of Court resolutions for Domestic Abuse (DA): Starting to look at conditional cautions. Trevor Davidson agreement for CARA (funding accepted for Beds and Herts).

Victim Support (VS) Survey; 8 out of 10 satisfaction; Only 2 felt Victims Code of Practice (VCOP) explained - (needs more work through the current process). All knew who the Officer in Case (OiC) was but none knew much about the Victim Engagement Officer
process.

Action: Deep dive needed into some of the surveys, with a need to concentrate on the delivery plan moving forward. ZB to report on progress at the next meeting. ZB

Government Metric Survey; In place for volume of crimes, burglary, robbery, theft, including motor vehicle ,16 out of the 25 surveys conducted were positive, better than the previous month. Survey frequency – work in progress.

Victim support survey for high harm crime; Procurement and question sets have been agreed for rape, domestic abuse, stalking and vulnerability crimes. Data Protection Impact Assessment (DPIA) are in the early stages.

Victim Code of Practice (VCOP) Compliance being tracked through investigation standards delivery board. 100% compliance for rape and serious sexual offending.

Action: CID have seen a slight drop in VCOP compliance; ZB will pick this up through Investigation Standards and report back at the next BCJB. ZB

Patrol are sitting at a healthy 92.5%. Emerald (Domestic Abuse team) sitting at 98.8%. 38% of BVCS referrals had a DA element to them. 100% had a contact attempt within 5 days and 100% evicted surveyed, which was 21 in BVCS – fully satisfied with the service
received.

Action: JT thanked ZB for a detailed report and asked ZB to provide her notes for circulation. ZB

Action: JT noted that it would be useful to have the Board’s reports ready for circulation prior to the meeting as it would be helpful to have them in advance. All

Reducing Reoffending Subgroup by FJ
PCC invited FJ to give an update on Youth Offending. The Reducing Reoffending subgroup has had a bumpy journey. Good presentations at the BCJB, delivered by the Police Service and Youth Offending have generated work which is being progressed via this group. However, for various reasons, including the focus on the Serious Violence Duty last year, there has been little consistency with this subgroup which needs a refocus.

− Transitions Group: A subgroup of the RRB started a pan Beds service mapping project with the OPCC leading. This work was transferred to the Serious Harm Partnership Board and very capable lead, tasked with completing this item. This individual has now moved on but unfortunately, as part of her handover, she noted very little progress, highlighting a lack of information provided by partner agencies.

− FJ has arranged a meeting (23-Aug) with key partners incl., new Chair from Probation, Youth Offending, Police and LA’s to look at progress on behalf of the partnership and to review the aims, objectives, and membership of the RRB.

− Members of the RRB, DC and PJ agreed with this assessment of the group’s status. A meeting has been scheduled with key partners to review the function of the Board.

Transitions of young people from youth offending into the Community or Probation: Meeting facilitated by Charlotte Ball and actions taken away. Youth offending will be leading on this project.

DC - This is an important piece of work and needs picking up. The Board looked at 18/20-year-old custody rates for Bedfordshire between April and July (38 young adults in
custody). The cost of young adults finding themselves in custody, previously known to services in the CJS is huge.

PJ - Concurred with the above, emphasising the need to expediate this project with Probation, with a cushioned service and softer landing for this age group, to share advice, insight and advice for workers and reduce reoffending.

To Note: JT noted, if there is going to be a sub-group, it needs commitment from all with clear objectives, outcomes and recommendations to make change in the systems.

Joint Beds/Herts Performance & Programme Management Group by LR
JT welcomed LR to the meeting.
LR informed the Board that she had received an email from the Chair of the Performance Group which outlined the key points to be flagged and noted at the BCJB. Going forwards LR suggested that it would be helpful for the Group to submit a written report which could then be shared in advance of the BCJB with the agenda.

To Note: FJ responding, advised that Performance reports are usually tabled however the Board lost its data lead in the last quarter. Data is an essential for the function of the Performance Board, and so it was agreed that this should be escalated to the BCJB as
concern for this group.

As a temporary solution, FJ will look at providing performance reports on behalf of the Board until a data lead can be sourced.

Themed Item Partnership Working (A whole systems approach)
HMP Bedford Update by SJ on behalf of Sarah Bott, Governor

SJ read the following statement prepared by Sarah Bott, Governor of HMP Bedford:

“HMP Bedford received an urgent notification in November 23. The establishment has been addressing issues identified following the inspection. The Prison is in a better position now, making progress in key areas. Staff are hard working and dedicated, facing multiple and complex challenges daily and “I’m proud of what they deliver under extreme
circumstances”.

− Three new key priorities – Safety, Decency and Relationships, encouraging prisoners to have a voice.

- Five new key values - Integrity, fairness, respect, compassion and inclusivity aligned to the key priorities.

I’m a strong believer that if you feel safe and you’re treated with decency, relationships will improve naturally. I recognise this hasn’t always been the case at the prison and the statistics are clear that violence is very high, particularly against staff. Therefore, I’ve been
focusing on giving prisoners a voice. Getting to understand what is driving the violence and frustrations. This is building positive relationships”.

To Note: The Government’s Early release scheme has put pressure on Offender Management Units resulting in higher recalls and prisoners being released without accommodation and Lost opportunities having secured employment due to no housing or
home on release has led to some prisoners being placed on constant watch, assessed as at immediate risk of self-harm or suicide is a major concern.

− Lack of housing: for prison leavers is a risk that the Board needs to consider.
− Revolving doors: Concerns relating to short sentences where prisoners are turned around and released within 14 days, not allowing time for issues, concerns or accommodation to be
addressed.”
− FJ noted finances as another major area of concern for prison leavers, with the potential to lead to reoffending. The DWP attend the Reducing Offending Group. We need to ensure that the DWP are involved in all meetings apart from the Board, which relate to prison leavers.

JT thanked SF for the report. The Board only has value if it brings together all the agencies and professionals around the table to be focused and look for solutions (even if it is one at a time).

What can we do as a team of professionals to join efforts? The partnership needs to look at how to fill these gaps?

JT suggested a small working group, members of the board to put together an interim view and concrete proposals by the next meeting to include colleagues from Housing.

− CA there are statutory limitations impacting on the ability to house prison leavers; Bedford current has 830 in temporary accommodation, some waiting over a year.
− Bedford have designated case workers supporting prison leavers but there are significant issues. Agreed that a working group is needed; The earlier we know about people coming out of prison, we can do our best to support but must recognise the issues.

JT concluding acknowledged the complexity of the problem and asked for volunteers to join a working group to support ex-prisoners coming out of prison and actively put in place measures to ensure that fewer people get into the system.

Action: JT Called for volunteers from relevant agencies such as Housing, DWP, Probation, to look at sentencing. FJ with the Restorative Justice (RJ) team to carry forward. FJ/NB

HMP Bedford Assertive Outreach Programme:

This service starts in the Prison on 4 August. There is a considerable amount of violent disruption in the Prison, being perpetrated by a small cohort, there are also concerns relating to self-harm as noted above.

The OPCC has provided ring-fenced funding for a prison officer to work with a prison psychologist and mental health nurse as part of a designated multidisciplinary team to work with this identified group.

• SF would like the service to follow through to probation and in the community to support prison leavers at the point of release. A whole system approach will help.

JT stated that the Prison report was positive and encouraging. Important for the Board to give support if and where necessary.

- FJ noted that it would be useful for the prison to have a lead contact for the relevant agencies. Charlott Ball leads on drug and alcohol group which has key partners around the table, and youth offending board has a lot of important partners.

Action: FJ to approach Charlotte to request that members of the Drug and Alcohol group, forward details of a lead for each agency who could liaise with HMP Bedford on prison releases. SF to provide the Board with an update at the next meeting. FJ/SF

Early Prison Releases:
SF – This is a national response to prison capacity, currently at 1%.

JT - If prisoners are released prematurely without accommodation, what are the implications for police, health service etc..? Are police custody areas going to be taken up. Are we confident that all agencies are going to be supported?

− JM informed the Board that he has picked up issues relating to prisoners going into the prison estate and ‘Op Safeguard’, where prisons go beyond their 450 space capacity, requiring the Police to hold prisoners in police cells longer until a space becomes available − A multi-agency Gold Group led by the Police are looking at arrangements in view of the Government’s announcement about early prison releases.

The aim is to use analysts to determine the risks and plan for the announced releases which commence in September.

We are currently not sure how many will be released into the Bedfordshire area, possibly 29 in the first tranche of releases commencing in September.

Action: FJ to add Housing and the early prison releases to the Board’s risk log.

The Bedfordshire Police & Crime Plan – A Whole Systems Approach

Please see attached, presented by JT.

JT noted the importance of ensuring that the victim is at the heart of the system. Safety, social justice, criminal justice and human rights matter. The new Police and Crime Plan highlights these issues, but we need a partnership, whole system approach to address them.

We know that there are financial and legal constraints. We know the issues that we need to focus on and the people around the board and wider group can help. JT - What can we do collectively, change locally rather than wait for the government? Working groups need a ToR and reporting mechanisms.

- ZB sits on the strategic oversight group, 3 JOIMs, sit below that. We have DA and RAZZO groups in place, specifically dealing with some of the issues discussed today. We have to be mindful that we are not duplicating efforts.
To note: JT agreeing and asked for blockages in the system or gaps to be reported back to the BCJB.

− FJ asked for TOR from ZB re the strategic oversight group.

− JM expressed the view that the purpose of the BCJB is to add strategic support. What are our collective objectives we want to achieve; how will this be delivered and how do we hold
people to account. Should be more benefit when we are working together.

− JT The Police and Crime Plan will help to shape things. My message to the board is to step up and bring together people. Solution focussed.

Partner reports by exception
JT asked for reports.

-JM mentioned the prison issue. Courts delay – Crown Court cases waiting for significant time to go to court.
− ZB DA cases waiting for over 2 years. Conviction rate is good. Lot of work going into that.
− JT for the victim having to re-live it is not good. More detailed report needed.
− FJ Health service integrated care, a duty to share information. Partnership working.

PCC Report
Police and Crime Plan 2024 - 2028
− To coincide with PCC’s 4 years in office. Consistent with the electorate and public consultation on the key objectives talking to the Police and Crime Panel for publication in September.
− There will be a 9 month and 3 year plan to have a better understanding of national direction of Government, resources needed to tackle crime. Reduce VAWG and reinvigorate and strengthen local policing.
− We will get direction from the Home Office regarding targets and possible funding.
− The key focus will be to ensure that victims are supported, offenders rights are protected and excellence within the police service.
Note: JT asked partners to look out for the consultation and forward to others. Looking for the partnership to share ownership of the Police and Crime plan so input from all is important.

AOB
JT Thanked everyone for their attendance and asked where possible they attend in person.
JT - Looking forward to receiving your comments on the draft Police and Crime Plan. Please forward to staff and your respective client focus groups.

Date of Next Meeting:
15 October 2024 – 10:00 – 12:00 hrs

 
MINUTES - BEDFORDSHIRE CRIMINAL JUSTICE BOARD 

Date: Tuesday 29 April 2025 at 1000hrs 
Venue: Bedfordshire Police HQ / Hybrid Meeting  

 
Executive Summary 

The Bedfordshire Criminal Justice Board (BCJB) convened on 29 April 2025. Discussions included strategic priorities for 2025–2028, review progress on current initiatives and consider how best to enhance cooperation and data sharing across agencies. Key topics related to the revised Police and Crime Plan, victim and offender pathways, trauma-informed practice, and data-led performance measurement. Priorities for the upcoming period include reducing reoffending, improving the victim journey, and enhancing data sharing mechanisms. Updates were also received from the Subgroups including Reducing Reoffending, Victims and Out of Court Resolutions, and Drug and Alcohol Pathways. A full list of actions is included at the end of the minutes. 
 

APOLOGIES	Lisa Ramsarran, Chris Derrick (CPS at a conference)  Ian Miller (HMCTS Crown)
PRESENT	ORGANISATION (in-person/on-line)
John Tizard  (JT)	Bedfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner
Alysha Patel (AP)	Bedfordshire OPCC Restorative Justice (in-person)
Charlotte Ball (CB)	Bedford Borough, Central Bedfordshire & Milton Keynes Public Health (in-person)
Ciara Mole (CM)	Beds Drug & Alcohol Coordinator (in-person)
Dave Collins (DCS)	Luton YoT (on-line)
Francoise Julian (FJ)	Bedfordshire OPCC Victims & Criminal Justice Manager (in-person)
James Garlow (JG)	Department of Work and Pensions (on-line)
Kerry White (KW)	HMCTS Crown Court (on-line)
Layla Allen (LA)	Citizens Advice Bureau, Witness Care (on-line)
Lisa Jenkins (LJ)	Head of Probation (on-line)
Lorna Carver (LC)	Central Bedfordshire LA (on-line)
Nicholas Moss (NM)	OoCR, RASSO and MVAWG Chair (in-person)
Pat Jennings (PJ)	Bedfordshire YoT (on-line)
Sharn Basra (SB)	Bedfordshire OPCC, Chief Executive Office
Simon Hardcastle (SH)	BLMK Integrated Care
Toni Montgomery-Johnson (TM)	Legal Aid
Yehudis Goldsobel	Bedfordshire OPCC, Head of Policy and Missions
Zara Brown (ZB)	Bedfordshire Police (in-person)

1. Welcome, Introduction and Apologies 

Chair (JT) noted apologies and welcomed attendees, including new members; Stuart Fraser (JCP/DWP), Nicholas Moss (Independent Chair, OoCR, RASSO and VAWG) and Toni Montgomery-Johnson (Legal Aid). 

2. Presentation - Strategic Direction 2025-28  

2.1 BCJB Development Day 
JT provided an overview of the BCJB development day held in January, which emphasised the need for a whole system approach to criminal Justice in Bedfordshire.  

Partners mapped the journey of victims and perpetrators from the moment the crime is committed through to sentencing and beyond.  This exercise highlight the need to take a system wide approach to that journey and how to support not only victims but also how to support perpetrators.

 
Key themes from the day highlighted; 
The need for a system-wide approach – with commitments to work together to improve outcomes.

Outcome-focused discussions and decisions at the Board level, rather than using the Board as a forum for organisation updates.

The need to ensure that the victim is very much at the centre of the system 
Recognition that whilst the system is flawed there is a need to work together to ensure the system is fit for purpose.
JT asked for feedback on his analysis of the day from those who attended.  No additional comments were noted. 

2.2 Police and Crime Plan: Strategic Direction 
JT presented second stage version of the Bedfordshire Police and Crime Plan Strategic Direction 2025-28 (the Plan), which will be published and circulated by 2nd May(presentation below). 

SD Briefing CJB Presentation
 
Stage One of the Plan, which was launched in October 2024.  
This approach allowed JT to ensure that the Plan aligned with the strategies of partner agencies, the steer from government and countywide stakeholders to strengthen the plan moving forward and  Mission Boards also helped to inform the revised plan and JT thanked all those who contributed to these Boards 

The 2025-28 plan has four key focus areas; 

Linking social justice with criminal justice and human rights  
Policing with and for the community Building public trust in policing and the criminal justice system 
Driving continuous improvement 

JT confirmed no change to the original seven missions but there are some new objectives for each of these. 
Partner feedback reinforced the need for system-wide cooperation and a focus on data-informed strategy and trauma-informed practices.  Agreed areas to focus; 

Reducing reoffending – especially youth reoffending 
Pre-release care and support 
Continuity of care for prison leavers 
Diversion from the system 
Victims’ experience 
data sharing, including data sets needed to shape the work of the Board effectively. 

Action:  Layla Alan informed that CAB hold witness experience survey reports and agreed to table these at future meetings. 
Action:  FJ to Scope what data each agency holds. 
Action:  Allocate time at next meeting for discussion on improving data sharing in the CJS and  what should be shared at the Board. 

Work programmes for the above to be agreed at future meetings. 
Share witness experience survey report at future meetings. 

3. Subgroup Updates 

3.1 Reducing Reoffending - Lisa Jenkins  

The Reducing Reoffending subgroup has focussed on reviewing its priorities in terms of how it aligns with the police and crime plan.  Identified that employment, drugs and alcohol and interventions were significant omissions from the plan which will be amended and reported on at the next quarter.  

LJ asked the Board to note that serious youth violence is governed elsewhere and emphasised the need to ensure that work is not being duplicated. 

It has progressed strands of from the current Reducing Reoffending strategy which includes IOM work and will be meeting East of England’s Chief Inspector of Probation with YouTurn Futures to showcase some of the work being done in this space.   

It is also progressing two housing navigators to break down barriers in securing accommodation and exploring pre-release meetings for individuals being released from custody.   

Next quarter it will be considering what the risk looks like for reducing reoffending.  

A revised ToR, a review of membership and agreement to overhaul the Reducing Reoffending subgroup’s strategic priorities. NM and CB highlighted the role of the non-local authority housing sector and governance structure. 
JT noted the absence of targets in the terms of reference. 

Action:   LJ to amend ToR for Reducing Reoffending Subgroup to include targets and gaps. 
It was agreed that membership of the RR Subgroup should continue to include providers, as there was considerable value having them present.  However, LC stressed the importance of ensuring that the Board and related subgroups has members who are not only attending but also contributing to the meetings.   
Action:  CM & LJ to agree reporting format for the next CJB meeting.  

3.2 Victims and Out of Court Resolutions 

ZB shared developments from the Force Victims and Victims and Engagement Subgroup. Written report provided. 

Victim surveys, trauma-informed training, outcome monitoring and inclusivity for non-English speakers were discussed. 

Governance and membership of FVB every quarter, feeds into the VWEB, very good relationship with ZB and Kimberley Lamb’s, legitimacy Board the race action plan also features, and feeding into the VWEB, constantly under review. 
Key elements of focus: 

HMIC recommendations focus on; Enhanced rights, improving IVNA quality, repeat victimisation rates and Spotlight on investigation standards 
A communications plan for the launch of the victims and witness strategy in place, focusing on different elements of the victims’ rights   
Additional staff appointed to strengthen the work to boost leadership relating to victims.

Victim Support will be conduction phone surveys; Currently waiting for VS to demonstrate the survey, BCJB asked to support this within their respective organisations. 

Listening circles being introduced both for black and south Asian women community to work more closely with community policing to enhance engagement with community.

Enhance victim contact through the investigation process with supers being held to account;

Compliance with monitoring complaints 
Introduction of the Victims Portal on the horizon 
Dr Jessica Taylor, psychologist from Uni of Birmingham, overspill money from VERU used to train 90 Officers and conduct train the trainer within the next 12 months. 

James Garlow noted that the DWP tends to focus on support for perpetrators, identifying the need to equally look at the needs of victims. 

Action: ZB to invite James Garlow (DWP) to Force Victims Subgroup for data sharing collaboration. 

Risks and issues: 

Victim personal statements a key theme locally and nationally; Not accurately recorded, sometimes not taken, quality. Recommendations being taken from Scrutiny groups chaired by NM. 

Key issues regarding not being able to get VPS from non-English speakers. 

Action:  ZB to Include qualitative victim survey feedback at future meetings. 
Action: ZB to Raise victim personal statement tracking issue with CPS and Court Services. 
Action:   Outcome 16 issues to be addressed through Force Victims Subgroup.  

3.3 Drug and Alcohol Pathways:

 
CB and CM reported on care continuity, sentencing treatment requirements, and drug testing on arrest. Future reporting formats to be agreed. 

Programme Reports: 

OoCR Panel: NM reported improvements in dealing with sex offender breaches and young witness treatment. ZB flagged the need for outcome data reviews.  
Action:  PJ and DC to  engage with YoT teams regarding child victims. 

Probation Update – Tom Morton 

Focus shifting to high-risk reoffenders, introducing accredited and structured intervention programmes. LM raised accessibility issues for Central Bedfordshire. LJ highlighted the National roll out of ‘Impact’ - A new approach to working with those at lower risk of reoffending and confirmed this would continue to include the use of community sentencing relating to this cohort.  
Action: LJ to circulate letter re: Impact Programme rollout 
   
Beds PCC BC Briefing presentation 

Letter to Beds PCC 
 

ACTION LOG
No.	Action	Assigned To	Status
1	Share witness experience survey report at future meetings.	Layla Alan	Ongoing
2	Invite James Garlow (DWP) to Force Victims Subgroup for data sharing collaboration	Zara Brown	Next FVB Meeting
3	Scope what data each agency holds.	Francoise Julian (with all agencies)	Coordinated scoping
4	Allocate time at next meeting for discussion on improving data sharing in the CJS and what should be shared at the Board	PCC John Tizard	For next meeting
5	Amend ToR for Reducing Reoffending Subgroup to include targets and gaps.	Lisa Jenkins	For next meeting
6	Raise victim personal statement tracking issue with CPS and Court Services	Zara Brown	For escalation at SOG
7	Include qualitative victim survey feedback at future meetings.	Zara Brown	For next meeting
8	Outcome 16 issues to be addressed through Force Victims Subgroup	Zara Brown	Next FVB
9	JT to respond to Lorna Carver on VERU engagement and transport access.	John Tizard	As follow-up
10	Finalise DA JOIM justice plan and circulate action plan	Zara Brown	When available
11	Track and report CPS case timeline (28-day benchmark)	Zara Brown	Report at next meeting
12	Circulate letter re: Impact Programme rollout	Lisa Jenkins	With meeting minutes
13	Ciara Mole & Lisa Jenkins to agree reporting format for CJB meeting	Ciara Mole & Lisa Jenkins	Next meeting
14	Engage with YoT teams regarding child victims.	David Collins & Pat Jennings	Next meeting

MINUTES - BEDFORDSHIRE CRIMINAL JUSTICE BOARD

Date: Monday 28^th July 2025, 1pm

Venue: Bedfordshire Police HQ / Hybrid Meeting

APOLOGIES
PRESENT	ORGANISATION (in-person/on-line)
John Tizard - Chair	Police and Crime Commissioner for Bedfordshire
Susan Childerhouse	Central Bedfordshire Council
Sharn Basra	Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner
Ciara Mole	Drug & Alcohol Partnership Lead, Bedfordshire
Kate Somarakis	HMCTS
David Collins	YoS, Luton Borough Council
Nazakat Ali	Luton Borough Council
Ian Miller	HMCTS
Nicola Bayliss	Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner
Chris Derrick	Crown Prosecution Service
Zara Brown	Bedfordshire Police
Nicholas Moss	Independent Chair, Violence Against Women & Girls and Out of Court Resolutions Groups
Francoise Julian	Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner
Umme Ali	Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner
Sarah Bott	HMP Bedford
Paul Mortimer	HMP Bedford
Helen Flavell	Probation Service
Gemma Mccormack	Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner

Welcome, Introduction and Apologies:

JT welcomed everyone to the meeting and apologies were noted from; Lorna Carver, Charlotte Ball, Emma Harwood, John Facey, Kerry White, Lisa Jenkins and Simon Smith.

Minutes of meeting held on 29 April, Actions and Risk Log:

The minutes of the previous meeting were discussed and agreed as an accurate record.

BCJB Performance Reports:

3.1 Reducing Reoffending:

LJ had presented the report from the Reducing Reoffending Board.

It was noted the Terms of Reference have now been reviewed and were approved by the BCJB.

It was noted that a new Health and Justice Co-Ordinator has been appointed by the Bedfordshire Probation Service.

The chair asked that in terms of priorities as set out in the paper, what commitment has been given by partner organisation to fulfil them.

The risks identified by the Reducing Reoffending Board are to be added to the BCJB Risk Register. These were;

·         The frequency by which Lifestyle and Associates appears as a relevant pathway relating to reoffending. 

·         The difficulty in securing accommodation for individuals with complex needs.

·         The issue of Friday and late releases.

·         The volume of system changes to address prison capacity measures. 

3.2 Drug & Alcohol Pathways Subgroups

CM reported on a discussion that was had at the recent Reducing Reoffending Board and the Drug and Alcohol Pathways meeting around Friday releases.

3.3 Victim Partnership Board:

ZB presented the report on Victims Partnership Board and the highlights of the report were discussed.

ZB said that the following issues have been reviewed and the reviews have been completed;

·         Strengthen Officer training on VPS personal impact which will be taken to the Force Victims Board.

·         Standardise the VPS template across all teams which will be taken to the Investigation Standards Delivery Board.

·         Improve VPS rates through early integration.

·         Increase victims uptake through clear, accessible information.

·         Encourage repeat VPS’s to reflect victims journey.

·         Monitor and then feedback the victims personal statement quality with a follow up assessment within the next quarter.

The Board expressed concern that the victims surveys and related activities currently do not give access to those without English as the first language.

It was agreed that VPS’s are essential and play a critical role throughout the criminal justice system, particularly when cases are before the courts.

Action: ZB, HF and NM to meet to look at what can be done to further develop the use of VPS’s further.

3.4 Joint Operation Improvement Meeting & Senior Operation Group (JOIM & SOG):

CM presented the report with a specific emphasis on the relations between CPS, Police and the Courts. CM highlighted areas of good performance and of challenges. These were subsequently discussed and it was agreed to establish a Task and Finish Group of practitioners from the key agencies to review barriers to optimum working between police, cps and the courts and bring forward to the next meeting of the BCJB proposals overcoming these barriers.

Action: FJ to establish a Task and Finish Group.

In terms of the National model for real time case conversations on domestic abuse cases. CM reported that a pilot is starting with Hertfordshire Constabulary and will be rolled out across the CPS region. CM will report progress at the next BCJB meeting.

3.5 RASSO & VAWG:

NM updated that the panel have looked at 10 out of court resolutions, 8 MVAWG and 5 RASSO cases. The headline that have come out of the review of these cases are;

·         The time taken to deal with some cases, particularly involving young offenders  aged 16 or 17.  It can sometimes take a very long time to deal with them and if they are being prosecuted, going to Court and then reach the age of 18 by the time they get to Court, the sentencing arrangements are more restrictive than they would be if they were being sentenced as youths.

Contacting victims, increasingly victims, especially those who are younger are being contacted via text, email or telephone, this is an area to look at improving, especially with junior colleagues. ZB advised there are 6 generations in policing at the moment and each generation has a different way of how they prefer to communicate. It is very important that all communication preferences from the victim need to be recorded on Athena.

·         The police database Athena, the nature of the recording on Athena isn’t necessarily sufficient to the Scrutiny Panel to enable the Panel to know whether decisions taken have been rationalised properly.

The report was noted.

Partnership Data Reports:

Following discussion it was agreed to review the data requirements for the Board’s objectives and how these can best be shared.

Action: FJ to speak to individual members of the board to identify what data is required and what is available.

Improving Data Sharing:

JT advised in October 2023 the Home Office issued the attached guidance. We have not yet agreed a Memorandum of Understanding with Partners at this Board and this is something we should have in place. JT asked for all to read the guidance and see if there is a consensus to agreeing to a data sharing protocol.. All were in agreement.

Action: FJ to consult all members regarding signing up to the national information sharing guidance and MoU.

HMCTS Report:

Presented by KS, highlighting the following.

-        Magistrates Courts are now back to managing the cases at a pre COVID level however the Crown Courts still has significant backlogs which they are working to reduce.

-        Case conversations involving the Police and CPS are important as too many cases are being sent back as they cannot be dealt with in court.

-        It is too early to report on the Leveson report Part 1, HMCTS awaiting Part 2.

-        There are Court rooms across the estate which aren’t suitable to be created into a Crown Court room, due to the amount of space needed and additional security.

-        Listing delays are being looked at with District Judges for solutions. There are some delays with Trials so any other support from agencies would be most welcome.

-        Two Legal Advisors have left the court service

-         A decision has been made to reduce the gap listing capacity, as the gap Courts were not being filled therefore the resource has been allocated to other places.

-        The DA Court is not being fully utilised

-        The youth courts are currently under utilised;  DC noted that this isn’t all bad as it reflects the work being done by YoT, to reduce first time entrance and increased use of out of court disposals.

It was noted that there are currently too few CPO’s in Bedfordshire.

KS further advised that there are a number of issues contributing to delays in the court system even before the case gets to first hearing, these include first offences taking a long time to be charged, cases being sent to the wrong courts putting a strain on other services and a substantial amount of guilty pleas and DA courts not being utilised as well as they could be.

KS also suggested that greater use of conditional bail could help alleviate some of the current pressures.

Action: ZB to speak to the Chief Inspector for Custody about the issues raised by KS.

Action:   A small task group of key partners is needed to look at the issues highlighted, FJ to facilitate.

Review and Reform of Systemwide Governance:

JT advised that he is commissioning a consultant to review the partnership and collaboration governance arrangements for safeguarding, community safety and the wider criminal justice system with the plan to eliminate duplication and improve efficiency and effectiveness as well as strengthening governance. This work will start in September 2025 and all members of this Board and all agencies will be asked to participate in the process.

Summary and Overlapping Theme in Criminal Justice Reviews:

JT noted that a number of key review reports relating to the Criminal Justice System have been published in the first half of 2025 with overlapping themes of relevance to the Bedfordshire Criminal Justice Board the local Police and Crime Plan, of which includes the following.

Summary & overlapping Themes in Criminal Justice Reviews

Consider what if any action that the Board should be taking.
- Gauke Independent Sentencing Review Final Report
- Joint case building by the police and Crown Prosecution Service: final report - His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services
- Leveson Independent Review of the Criminal Courts Part 1

Board members were asked to consider the recommendations from each of the respective reports as they relate to their respective organisations.

All to provide FJ with their views on the CJS related reviews published in 2025 and what, if anything should be tabled at the Board for discussion and potential implementation.

Letter and Reply to MoJ from John Tizard, PCC:

JT had written to the Minister of State at MoJ about crown court provision in Luton, his letter and the Minister’s reply were noted.

Horizon Scanning:

JT advised that at a future meeting there will be an opportunity to discuss the Levenson report, the Gauke review report and the forthcoming police reform white paper.

Action: These items to be included on future agenda and members to be asked to identify any similar items for consideration by the board.

AOB:

Action: JT asked ahead of the next meeting if we have the right items on the agenda and are we focussing on the right areas and asked for feedback to be provided to JT and FJ ahead of the next meeting.

Action Update by DC, Youth Offending - Engage with YoT teams regarding child victims

Whilst not the only agency that work with child victims of crime, YoT do work with those victims resulting from the offending of children.

Since the last Board, Luton YoT, have undertaken a number of audits in relation to its work with victims; Around 75% of victims are children.  Luton YoT has a Victim Contact Worker that makes direct contact with those victims to ascertain how to work with them restoratively and can be put in place externally within intervention for young people for the protection of victims.

However, some of the issues faced by the Service have already been discussed, including the length of time before there is closure of a case or a missing VPS.
This is a larger issue, as the new HMIP youth justice inspection framework has a dedicated set of criteria about work with and for victims. Driven by the audits and analysis, in Luton, the YoT formulated an action plan in relation to how to ensure he needs of our victims are being met, which will include increasing our visibility with organisations delivering victim services and across dedicated victim meetings.

Date of Next Meeting:

28 October 2025, 10:00 – 12:00

Action 

Invite James Garlow (DWP) to Force Victims Subgroup for data sharing collaboration - Zara Brown - Next FVB Meeting.

Raise victim personal statement tracking issue with CPS and Court Services -Zara Brown - For escalation at SOG

Include qualitative victim survey feedback at future meetings - Zara Brown - For next meeting

Finalise DA JOIM justice plan and circulate action plan - Zara Brown - When available

Track and report CPS case timeline (28-day benchmark) - Zara Brown - Report at next meeting

Early releases and risk analysis - Probation Service - Next Meeting

ZB and Helen to meet to look at what can be done to develop VPS further - Zara Brown and Helen Flavell - Next Meeting

Domestic Abuse Courts utilisation - a small task group of key partners is needed to look at the issues highlighted, FJ to facilitate - Francoise Julian - Ongoing

FJ to consult all members regarding signing up to the national information sharing guidance and MoU - Francoise Julian/All - Ongoing

Scope what data each agency holds - Francoise Julian (with all agencies) - Complete 

Allocate time at next meeting for discussion on improving data sharing in the CJS and what should be shared at the Board - PCC John Tizard - Completed

Outcome 16 issues to be addressed through Force Victims Subgroup - Zara Brown - Completed

Circulate letter re: Impact Programme rollout - Lisa Jenkins - Completed

Ciara Mole & Lisa Jenkins to agree reporting format for CJB meeting - Ciara Mole & Lisa Jenkins - Completed

Engage with YoT teams regarding child victims - David Collins & Pat Jennings - Completed

FJ to speak to all members of the board to identify what data is available and capture their views on what should be tabled at future BCJB meetings - Francoise Julian - Consultation concludes Nov-25.

All to provide FJ with their views on the CJS related reviews published in 2025 and what, if anything should be tabled at the Board for discussion and potential implementation - Francoise Julian/All - Consultation concludes Nov-25.

JT asked ahead of the next meeting if we have the right items on the agenda and are we focussing on the right areas and asked for feedback to be provided to JT and FJ ahead of the next meeting - All Consultation - concludes Nov-25.

 

MINUTES - BEDFORDSHIRE CRIMINAL JUSTICE BOARD

Date: Tuesday 28 October 2025, 10am-12pm

Venue: Bedfordshire Police HQ / Hybrid Meeting

 

APOLOGIES	Zara Brown, Bedfordshire Police (represented by Aman Dhaliwal) Kerry White, HMCTS Crown Lisa Ramsarran, CPS (represented by Joanna Coleman) Chris Derrick, CPS
PRESENT	ORGANISATION (in-person/on-line)
John Tizard - Chair	Police and Crime Commissioner for Bedfordshire
Aman Dhaliwal	Bedfordshire Police
Charlotte Ball	Central Bedfordshire Council / Bedford Borough Council
Ciara Mole	Drug & Alcohol Partnership Lead, Bedfordshire
David Collins	YoS, Luton Borough Council
Francoise Julian	Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner
Ian Miller	HMCTS Crown
Joanna Coleman	Crown Prosecution Service
John Murphy	Bedfordshire Police
Kate Somarakis	HMCTS Magistrates
Lara Lewis	Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (minute taker)
Layla Allen	Citizens Advice Bureau
Lisa Jenkins	Probation Service
Marise Thomas	Violence and Exploitation Prevention Partnership
Nashoria Hussain	Bedfordshire Police
Nicholas Moss	Independent Chair, Violence Against Women & Girls and Out of Court Resolutions Groups
Paul Mortimer	HMP Bedford
Susan Childerhouse	Central Bedfordshire Council

Welcome, Introduction and Apologies:

JT welcomed all to the meeting and apologies above, noted.

Minutes of previous meeting, Actions and Risk Log:

Minutes:

Minutes of meeting held on 28 July 2025, agreed as an accurate record.

Actions:

• Actions for ZB carried
• BCJB consultation will conclude end November 2025

Case progression task group to be progressed, coordinated by FJ in quarter 3.

BCJB Consultation Update:

FJ presented preliminary findings from BCJB consultation agreed at the July Board, due to conclude in November.

Outcomes and early recommendations included key discussion points related to;

• Victim attrition; Presentation by police included on the agenda

Action: Performance reports - Police, HMCTS Crown, Magistrates and CPS to note the feedback on data to present at the Board and incorporate into future reports.

• Effectiveness of police and CPS collaboration and case progression; Both of which will be picked up by the task group to be coordinated by
• Victim personal statements, their use and impact; HMCTS stated that the use of VPS’ aren’t recorded but would help cases if they were, they are particularly important in the Crown where cases are often more

PCC wants to explore further how this can be recorded and raise at a national level in terms of case management system mechanisms and no system for recording in the courts. IM agreed and suggested escalation to the national CJB.

Action: JT to write to the national LCJB to escalate concerns regarding the issues of recording the use of VPS in courts (offer, uptake and use of VPS). NM to raise with the Victims Commissioner. HMCTS and CPS to also escalate within their respective organisations.

Action: Police to report on offer and uptake of VPS as part of the Victims Partnership Report at the January BCJB meeting.

• Outcome 16 (when victim does not support a prosecution or withdraws); Concern expressed about new recruits and younger workforce ability to encourage victims to proceed. JM acknowledged that this is a current issue as training will not cover this in the detail required, these are skills learnt with experience.
• Prison releases: Monitoring of early release outcomes and late Friday releases, addressing community service demand and recall cycle.

LJ advised that the position regarding prison releases noted above might shift with the sentencing bill when it comes into force. The CJS may be looking at different challenges in a year’s time.

Action: BCJB to revisit once the sentencing Bill has come into force – add to forward plan. Probation to lead in providing an update on the local whole system response.

BCJB Subgroups

Victim Partnership Board (VPB)

NH provided a summary, reporting on the highlights from the September (25/26 Q2) Victims Partnership Board.

• Attendance has improved with varied representation including probation and YoT.
• The Force Victims Board feeds updates on performance into the VPB, this includes;
  • VCOP
  • Offer and uptake of VPS (discussed above)

Updates on surveys and deep dive reviews such as the work on attrition (analysis and strategic response), on the BCJB agenda

• Police are working directly with CPS on summons in relation to DA cases
• The MoJ have almost finalised the VCOP metrics they would like the police to report. Once released, the Police can look at the way power BI runs and then change that appropriately.
• Victim notification scheme and listening circles schemes now in place and updates provided to the VPB.

NM asked about use of Outcome 16 and victims withdrawing (pre-charge) and whether summons/evidence led prosecution can be progressed, whilst minimising impact on victim.

JM responded that Bedfordshire Police focus on engaging victims and are trying to understand better what victims want from their report.

JC added that CPS face challenges in terms of the length of time it takes to get a case to court particularly when defendant not in custody. PCC thanked NH for report.

Reducing Reoffending and Drug & Alcohol Pathways Subgroup Report

LJ presented report on most recent meeting, highlighting discussions on:

• Housing and issues for those classed as ‘intentionally homeless’ legislation and possible alternatives
• PCC will be raising this with political leaders
• Mental health – expanding priority
• Impact of sentencing review on all agencies

PCC attended last meeting of RRB and wants to see more outcomes at future meetings.

MT asked about AFEO funding and whether that could be used to provide accommodation for ex-offenders. LJ stated that those who are intentionally homeless are deemed unable to be assisted for accommodation.

Action: SC unsure of obstacles relating to accommodating ex-offenders classified as intentionally homeless. Explore further with local authorities through the RRB.

Victim Survey Attrition

Bedfordshire Police conducted a review of victim attrition in DA and RASSO cases to understand why victims are withdrawing and what can be put in place

to reduce attrition. Report focuses on pre- and post-charge attrition and how to enhance trust and confidence in policing.

the pre charge review focused on 63 investigations; Deep dive sampled and looking at the reasons why victims were disengaging and at what point they disengaged:

• 76% of victims withdrew at the outset of the investigation
• 71% were unsupported from the beginning while 25% cited personal circumstances
• 3% did not have regular contact with the police
• 33% declined contact from the officer
• 16% had dual contact- OIC and VEO
• Unsupported from the beginning’ was the most common reason cited by RASSO and DA victims
• 79% of post-charge cases where victims dropped out were related to DA
• Withdrawal often relating to family pressure, mental health, distrust in the police and loss of contact
• Attrition is influenced by complex interplay of personal, procedural and systematic factors

The findings underscored the importance of early sustained engagement, trauma, informed communication and culturally sensitive support.

Recommendations

Strengthening engagement and ongoing communication particularly with under 25 and in high-risk investigations;

• Clear explanation of process and signposting to support services
• Trauma informed approach training - very effective so far
• Post charge - regular updates and collaborating with victim care, court companion scheme e.g. IDVA and ISVAs
• Looking at data gaps and recording
• Monitoring VCOP compliance closely through HMIC AFIs

PCC: what can agencies do more effectively together to reduce attrition?

NH responded that there must be a collective trauma-informed response, understand victims needs and ensure that effective support by services is offered and carried out throughout pre- and post-charge process.

Sometimes victims won’t hear from witness care or OIC until the trial is imminent. Need better use of IDVA/ISVA. Need to improve file quality to reduce post-charge timeline which is an active area of focus through File Quality Project Board at the police and training of investigators.

LA: Witness Care supports that victims report they hear nothing until Court date.

JM: Issue of survivors stating that they felt ‘Unsupported from the outset’ – are we offering the right kind of support for their needs? Biggest drivers for victims are financial dependencies and family needs. These are bigger issues for victims than being contacted through the CJS. Do we understand the extent to which these things are addressed by partners rather than supported through the CJS. JC agreed, often cited in victim withdrawal statements.

NM: people want to tell the police to place incident on record rather than press criminal charges, sometimes survivors just want to talk. JM agreed- looking into this through Op Soteria.

NH: Need to speak to commissioned services and survivors to better understand needs of victims and address the gap in provisions.

Action: FJ to research existing literature that captures the voice of the survivor concerning the issues highlighted above and provide JT with a brief to help inform the next agenda.

KS: Bedfordshire has Magistrates Courts, which still aren't being used; We' have specialist crown prosecutors in those courts and probation officers who have specialised in domestic abuse but they're not being that some of this work is not being filtered through to those specialist courts.

NB: The courts provide special measures support via witness care, with competing high level courts and cases in custody, on charge and post charge. Some of this work not being filtered through to the specialist courts and needs to be promoted by Police and CPS, as specialist courts are still not being fully utilised.

Action: To be picked up by the Police/HMCTS/CPS/Probation task group facilitated by the OPCC.

Performance Reports

RASSO & VAWG

NM verbally updated on recent meetings, noting high performance of officers involved in meetings and valuable contributions. He highlighted main topics, including:

• Victim contact – how to be engaged with
• Sex offender register non-compliance – how the police manage those who are non-compliant and how effectively
• Failure to seize suspects’ mobile phones to assist prosecutions
• Lack of exhaustive enquiries in DA cases PCC thanked NM for report which was noted.

1. Joint Operation Improvement Meeting & Senior Operation Group (JOIM & SOG)

JC presented report on behalf of CPS on recent meetings, highlighting:

• RASSO VRI quality to be improved
• DA JJP has taken shape and been implemented with success to lead to quicker charging decisions – can discuss further at future meeting.

NM asked if there is still lack of understanding amongst junior officers around what disclosure is. JM noted there is ongoing training of investigators but will investigate further.

Whole System: Courts and Sentencing

HMCTS Report on Crown Court by Ian Miller 

IM presented report, noting that future content may be changed to ensure most valuable to the meeting.

• Number of cases and sentencings backlog still high but working hard to reduce it by maxing out court rooms in use.
• Lots of staff absence causing some Constant recruitment ongoing for ushers with high turnover in Bedfordshire. Some cases supported by London courts.
• Identifying suitable space for increasing hearings where possible but dependent on cells and how to prioritise high level cases

PCC asked about breakdown by type of crime for outstanding trials; Only broken down by category- focusing on priority areas and whether London has more capacity than Luton.

IM responded that this was not the case as applicable across the whole region and London has some capacity for sitting days to hear cases from across the South East region.

However, IM noted that other regions have greater backlogs than Bedfordshire and will therefore be given priority.

Sentencing Bill

LJ presented the attached on planning for the upcoming Sentencing Bill which is the response to Gauke Review. The Bill is going through parliament with possible implementation in early 2026.

• Will change way prisons and probation work with people
• Wide ranging impact on workload on probation and prison
• Less people to face custodial sentence

PCC asked what the implications will be for all agencies.

LJ responded that Probation are focussing on local planning with the police as there will be more people in the community that wouldn’t have been there previously. It is difficult to quantify the challenges that will be faced but there will be a focussed session on this at the next RRB.

MT asked if remands will be reviewed. CB also concerned about impact on caseload capacity for Drug and Alcohol services particularly as funding not confirmed for next year.

Review and Reform of Systemwide Governance:

PCC informed the BCJB that he would be appointing a consultancy to undertake review of the architecture and to understand governance, rationalise it and make it more effective.

The work will include, looking at where some arrangements particularly in safeguarding, can be done on a more countywide level.

Will update further at future meetings.

AOB:

Restorative Justice Week to be held 16-22 November

IM to retire before next board; PCC and the Board thanked IM for his contributions to the Board since during his tenure as Chair and asked for it to be noted on record, the value of IM’s contribution to the BCJB. The PCC and CJS partners wishes IM well in his future endeavours.

Date of Next Meeting:

27 January 2026, 10:00 – 12:00

MINUTES - BEDFORDSHIRE CRIMINAL JUSTICE BOARD

Date: Tuesday 27 January 2026, 10am-12pm

Venue: Bedfordshire Police HQ / Hybrid Meeting

 

APOLOGIES

Charlotte Ball, Public Health Principal, Drug and Alcohol, Central Bedfordshire (CBC), Bedford Borough (BBC) Milton Keynes David Collins, Head of Service, Youth Partnership Service, Luton Ciara Mole, Bedfordshire Combating Drugs Partnership Co-Ordinator Chris Derrick, Deputy Chief Crown Prosecutor, CPS Thames & Chiltern John Murphy, Assistant Chief Constable, Bedfordshire Police Layla Allen, Citizens Advice Witness Service, Operations Support Manager Lorna Carver, Director of Place and Communities, Central Bedfordshire Council (CBC)

         

PRESENT	ORGANISATION (in-person/on-line)
John Tizard - Chair	Police and Crime Commissioner for Bedfordshire
Emma Harwood	Area Contract Manager, Contract Management and Assurance, Legal Aid
Francoise Julian	Victims and Criminal Justice, OPCC Bedfordshire
Helen Quinn	Head of Policy and Missions, OPCC Bedfordshire
Ian Butler	Head Of Administration of Justice Beds, Cambs, Herts, Witness Care
Kate Somarakis	Senior Legal Manager – Business Crime SE region, Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and Thames Valley, HMCTS Magistrates
Kerry White	Acting Deputy Head of Operations (Crime & IAC) Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, Norfolk, Essex & Suffolk, HMCTS Crown
Lisa Jenkins	Head of Bedfordshire Probation Service, HMPPS
Lisa Ramsarran	Deputy Chief Crown Prosecutor, CPS Thames and Chiltern Area
Marise Thomas	Serious Violence Duty Coordinator, Violence and Exploitation Prevention Partnership (VEPP)
Nicholas Moss	Independent Chair, Violence Against Women & Girls and Out of Court Resolutions Groups Scrutiny Panels
Pat Jennings	Head of Service, YoT & Probation, BBC and CBC
Susan Childerhouse	Service Director, Public Protection & Transport Place and Communities, CBC

 

 

Item No.	Topic
1.	Welcome, Introduction and Apologies: JT opened the meeting with welcomes and introductions and noted apologies. Action:  Ensure the relevant leads for the following organisations are invited to attend the BCJB: -      Integrated Care Board, East London Foundation Trust (ELFT) and Defence Lawyer representation.
2.	Minutes and Actions of the Meeting – 28 October 2025 Minutes were approved by the Board. Majority of actions completed or ongoing. (Please refer to the actions log). The Case Progression Task Group held its first meeting on 23 January and will report into BCJB via the Victims Partnership Board Sub-group.
3.	HMCTS Update by Kate Somarakis (Magistrates) and Kerry White (Crown) KS reported no significant backlogs in the Magistrates Courts. A new listing tool has been implemented to prevent over listing. Current listing runs to September, which is favourable compared with other regions currently listing into 2027. KS noted gaps for domestic abuse courts, ngap, guilty plea courts, and youth courts remain within 14–28 days. Emphasis was placed on custody Sergeants reviewing bail risk and using bail conditions more effectively. Action: Case Progression - HMCTS request police do not use remand unnecessarily; consider bail conditions in line with recent changes to the Bail Act. Use of Virtual Courts KS outlined that some cases are unsuitable for virtual hearings; video links are used extensively for prisons. Technology upgrades are ongoing. Concerns raised about the level of “churn,” including CPS frequently pursuing additional material from police. Virtual courts are most useful for digital case management and do not significantly speed up Magistrates’ Court business. HMCTS have expanded video‑link capacity with feeder prisons, including Bedford and Peterborough, enabling more custody and sentencing cases to be managed remotely, and court technology continues to support this work. NM stressed the importance of Magistrates training covering Part 3 of the criminal procedure rules which prescribes what the parties must do to ensure that when they do appear in court and consequences for being in breach of the rules set out in part 3. Case Readiness Regular senior‑level meetings with CPS continue, but concerns remain about case “churn,” with files often arriving incomplete or lacking evidence required for proper review. Key information and digital material are not always available early enough, which delays readiness. This and other matters were discussed at the Case Progression task group attended on 23 January to identify the key issues in the system which this task group should focus on. Action: Case readiness - Police and CPS to review and seek to improve case quality before listing. Raise at Case Progression Task Group the need for better trial preparation and appropriate use of bail. Public expectation around magistrates waiting times (4–6 months) Current Magistrates’ Court trials are being listed into mid‑September, which reflects the temporary reduction in open trial courts during peak summer leave while resources are balanced across legal advisers, court associates and district judges. Additional courts are expected to open over the summer, and the current listing position is not a concern—especially as some areas in the Southeast are already listing into 2027—so performance is anticipated to improve as new work comes in. Early Guilty Pleas LR reinforced the importance of early guilty pleas and serving Imprisonment for Public Protection in good time. Digital issues continue to impact information sharing. Prefers returning cases same day over adjournments to reduce delays. Discussion – Zara Brown / Ian Miller -      Concerns about risk aversion and contested rates (e.g., drink/drug driving). -      Police overuse of remand courts noted. Crown Court and Courts’ Estates – Kerry White -      1,087 outstanding cases across eight courtrooms in Luton -      Bail cases listed to June 2027; sex cases prioritised to April 2027. With the Independent Review of the Courts Part 2 due, there will be significant changes. The Courts have started to look at the estate in preparation to see if courtroom usage, is being utilised in the right way. -      Video equipment, both in the Crown Court and Magistrates Court -      Heating issues persist at Luton Magistrates court (particularly in Luton Crown Court)
4.	4. BCJB Sub-group Reports 4.1 Reducing Reoffending Board (RRB) – Lisa Jenkins Items discussed included: -      Sentencing Act updates and pathways (housing, attendance). -      Drugs and alcohol pathways continuity for prison leavers. -      IOM review and pre-release meeting processes. -      Significant concerns around mental health capacity. -      Sentencing Act implications including short custodial sentences and increased demand in the community. -      Fixed term recall extension (28 → 56 days). -      Earned progression model updates forthcoming. Escalation from the RRB: Concerns were raised about remand cases being dealt with late in the day, which can result in individuals being released with time served and entering the community without adequate time for risk or safeguarding planning. This is particularly challenging on Fridays, where limited hours make safe management more difficult. Some regions have trialled approaches to address this, but operational pressures mean earlier court sitting times are unlikely to be achievable at present. Action: LJ to gather and share relevant case examples with KS and KW to support further consideration of the issue. Action: Sentencing Act: Identify implications for the CJS – Reports to be presented at the next BCJB (28 April 2026). 4.2 Victim Partnership Board – Zara Brown Two reports were reviewed: i)               the Outcome 16 review, and ii)              the VPS performance review. Outcome 16 83% of Outcome 16 disposals were correctly applied, with 17% incorrect, highlighting ongoing decision‑making issues. Outcome 16 processes require standardisation, including consolidation of multiple pro formas and improved recording of victim disengagement. Victims are sometimes presented with limited options, indicating a need for cultural and communication changes. Data accuracy problems continue across systems. Key Outcome 16 recommendations include standardised documentation, fixed locations for investigation plans in Athena, better body‑worn video linkage, improved recording of non‑support, and routine consideration of out‑of‑court options. VPS performance VPS performance has improved, but victim understanding and acceptance still require development. Six VPS recommendations include improving officer knowledge, standardising templates, strengthening early offers and escalation, ensuring accessible information, and improving repeat VPS processes and governance. Victim‑focused practice is supported by the investigators’ manual and monthly Step into Their Shoes guidance. Vulnerability and Exploitation Board activity shows improved Initial Victims Needs Assessment (IVNA) quality and referrals exceeding the 25% benchmark. Victim Champions have been publicly listed and will be refreshed every three months for visibility and governance. Action:   A link between Victim Champions and Restorative Justice Champions will be explored by ZB (Nash Hussain oversees victims’ team). -      Witness Care – Ian Butler: ·       Focus on improving how custody decisions align with the correct court pathway, amid concerns that too many cases enter the remand court before investigations are complete. ·       Early investigative gaps hinder proper pre‑interview disclosure, reducing detainees’ ability to make informed decisions with their legal representatives. ·       An aspiration remains to complete investigations within 100 days to strengthen evidence quality, case management, and the overall victim journey, though progress updates are not yet available. ·       The 100‑day model is expected to improve bail management and reduce risks associated with six‑month bail‑to‑release deadlines. -      ZB added that quality of VRI is being reviewed by Bianca Lazar. 4.3 OOCR, VAWG & RASSO Scrutiny Panel reports – Nicholas Moss Recent scrutiny panels (Out‑of‑Court Resolution, MVOG, and RASSO) highlighted recurring themes around victim communication, VPS practice, youth justice, and MAPPA awareness. Face‑to‑face contact with victims was emphasised as crucial, with concerns that increasing reliance on electronic communication may weaken victim engagement. Greater clarity is needed on Victim Personal Statement (VPS) offer and take‑up rates, and there is still no national mechanism to record VPS usage in court, which remains a significant gap. Concerns were raised about young people giving “no comment” interviews, which prevents diversionary options and leads to unnecessary court proceedings before cases are later dropped. -      Partners agreed it is important to explore ways to reduce this issue, including improving pre‑interview disclosure and officer confidence without incentivising admissions. Issues were noted around delayed police responses to breaches involving MAPPA nominals; probation confirmed they act on arrests and will discuss cross‑agency concerns further. Actions:  -      Youth Diversion – CD/ZB to raise need to divert children before entering the system at Joint Operations; requires professional challenge around legal aid/defence processes. -      MAPPA: Lisa Jenkins and NM to meet to discuss actions relating to breach processes for feedback to SMB. -      Legal Aid Query: Emma Harwood to review Youth “no comment” cases and return with advice. -      VPS Tracking Pilot: Establish short-term T&F Group (attendees: Nash, Tanya, RASSO, JCPS, IB, Kate, Kerry) to pilot 3-month tracking of VPS across CJS.
5.	Victims Review by Helen Quinn Helen Quinn, Head of Policy and Missions provided a brief update on the Victims Review, which will be led by Kathryn Harris, Policy Officer, OPCC. HQ summarised the OPCC is conducting a comprehensive review of victims’ needs and the effectiveness of current services across Bedfordshire. This builds on the 2016 and 2021 assessments and supports the PCC’s Police and Crime Plan by ensuring victims remain central to the CJS. HQ emphasised the need for full engagement throughout the review. The review’s objectives are: -      to put the interests of victims at the heart of the criminal justice system -      to ensure that all victims have their rights and entitlements met -      to develop and implement a victim led system Its scope is: -      Victim experience and victim views as paramount focus -      All types of crime -      Every stage of the journey from crime being committed to resolution of the case through the courts or otherwise -      All agencies including police, CPS, courts, and voluntary and community organisations -      Victims’ empowerment -      Comparisons of Bedfordshire with other areas; ·       outcomes ·       victim involvement in service design, monitoring and governance ·       expenditure ·       organisational arrangements ·       governance -      How agencies work together and ensure victims do not fall between agencies and/or services -      How the victims’ not the professionals’ views and needs prevail (and any barriers to this – cultural structural, financial and legal) -      A trauma approach to supporting and empowering victims -      Customer service at all stages of the journey -      Advocacy -      Support services -      Victim involvement in decision making about their case -      Attrition at all stages and how this can be reduced -      Relations and operability between agencies -      Use of resources to ensure VfM and maximise effectiveness -      Links with prevention and social justice missions -      Comparisons between: ·       crime types ·       victim gender, ethnicity and age, social economic category ·       areas across the county HQ concluded that the review is focused on driving positive change. Its findings will inform future commissioning, strengthen partnerships, and ensure victims in Bedfordshire receive the best possible support. The review is at an early scoping phase and will be reported on at future BCJB meetings. Action:  Include Probation Victims Lead in the review process.
6.	CJS Information Sharing MoU National MoU template had been circulated. Partners agreed to signing the agreement. Action:  It was agreed that all agencies would sign the MoU.   MoU to be circulated to members to seek sign-off.
7.	Any Other Business Forward Plan Actions: -      Include discussion on Police Reform White Paper at next Board. -      Disproportionality: Agreed for forward plan, the need to consider outcomes by ethnicity across Police, CPS, Probation; ensure tracking aligns with the updated Sentencing Act including a focus on victims.
8.	Date of Next Meeting Tuesday, 28 April 2026 – 10:00–12:00