Report

Justice without bars

Think tank: Social Market Foundation

Author(s): Jake Shepherd

January 28, 2025

This report from UK think tank the Social Market Foundation examines expanding community sentencing to reduce reoffending.

The UK’s prison system is under mounting pressure, sparking political debate about the role of non-custodial sentences in reducing reoffending.

Drawing on evidence from international practices, this briefing explores the potential of community sentencing to reduce recidivism rates, improve rehabilitation outcomes, and address prison overcrowding. ‘Sentencing inflation’ has been contributing to overcrowding and poor conditions in prisons.

Community sentencing, where offenders are punished without imprisonment, is promoted by campaigners as an alternative to short prison terms. Evidence from other countries suggests community sentences can reduce reoffending and improve rehabilitation outcomes. In The Netherlands, community sentencing reallocates resources toward rehabilitation, with changes in the justice system contributing to a reduced prison population. Norway’s exemplar model prioritises rehabilitation through community sanctions, such as electronic monitoring and limited custodial sentences for young offenders. It has one of the world’s lowest recidivism rates.

The government should consider increasing the use of community sentencing, with international evidence showing there is potential for alleviating pressure on the justice system.