We have published a review of literature looking at evidence on the effectiveness of sentencing.

The review considers in particular evidence relating to reoffending, reflecting the Council’s statutory duty to have regard to the effectiveness of sentences in preventing reoffending. It also considers evidence on related areas such as the impact of sentencing on long-term desistance from offending, on deterrence, and on the cost-effectiveness of different sentences.

The review was commissioned to ensure the Council is able to consider the most up-to-date evidence on effectiveness of sentences in reducing reoffending when we develop and revise guidelines.