Rehabilitation and resettlement of offenders in the spotlight in Norfolk

More than 150 professionals from across Norfolk came together on Friday (March 18) to share success stories and hear about how more can be done to help with the rehabilitation of offenders.

Deputy PCC Jenny McKibben gave the opening speech at the event.

The Norfolk Alliance for the Rehabilitation and Resettlement of Offenders (N-ARRO) conference was held at The Open in Norwich with Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Jenny McKibben delivering a keynote speech to open the event.

Addressing delegates Jenny, said: “There is still so much more we can do to help with the rehabilitation of offenders. We need more agencies and practitioners to come forward and work with employers to help fill skills shortages in the jobs market.

"Developing strong partnerships with multiple agencies is key to helping offenders establish a sustainable lifestyle, and help to integrate offenders back into our communities.”

Sam Delcoure from NORSE, who have recently taken on a number of ex-offenders as part of the Gateway to Employment scheme said: “Today has been really informative for us as a company. Events like today’s bring everyone under one roof to come up with solutions and better facilitate the resettlement of offenders in Norfolk.”

Chrissy Charmers, who organised the event, said: “We have a diverse group of practitioners here today giving plenty of opportunity to discuss ways of helping ex-offenders get on track.

"Events such as this, bring key players together and allow us to explore fresh ideas and opportunities for collaboration in shaping future provision.

"I’m very grateful to all who have attended, and would like to say thank you to the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for providing additional support at today’s event.”

Practitioners, including Her Majesty’s Prison Service, local authorities and Ministry of Justice commissioners, were invited to attend the event. The programme included interaction with ‘through the gate’ services, ‘offender journeys’ and celebrated current success stories from across the region. 

NARRO was established following the introduction of The Offender Rehabilitation Act 2014 to help reduce re-offending in Norfolk.