The Probation Chiefs Association (PCA) – an independent and national body representing the professional views of the probation leadership in England and Wales - was officially set up yesterday.

The role of the PCA is to take part in the debate over law and order by commenting, challenging and contributing to the development of not just probation but criminal justice policy and practice more widely. 

 David Scott, the PCA Chair and Chief Officer, London Probation, said: “Critical to our success will be the way in which we communicate what we do to local people and communities. We have evidence that in general they have only a vague idea of what probation is or does. So it is vital that our association, with the support of the Society of Editors, develops strong relationships with the national and regional press to address this.” 

The PCA has already issued its first press release, responding to the House of Commons Justice Committee’s most recent report on the day it appeared. The association backed many of its conclusions, Probation Chiefs having long held the view that the availability of and confidence in community sentences are key to reducing re-offending.