Prevention & Diversion

Why do we need prevention and diversion?

Crime has many complex underlying causes such as poverty, homelessness and addiction, and research has shown that individuals in the criminal justice system are more likely to have suffered Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) such as abuse or neglect. By preventing these issues or addressing them at an earlier stage, we can reduce crime in society. Yet too often, individuals only have access to services once they enter the criminal justice system.

If an individual has committed a crime, processing them through the courts can do more harm than good, leaving them with a criminal record and increasing their rate of reoffending. We can make our communities safer by resolving crimes without going to court and helping individuals address their underlying needs in the community, where possible.

We advocate for greater use of early intervention, prevention and diversion to help people lead crime-free lives.

Our recent work:

How the PCSC Bill will entrench racial inequality

The CJA has been working with partner organisations to highlight how the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill will deepen racial inequality in the criminal justice system. In a briefing on this issue, we raise concerns that Black, Asian and minority ethnic people will miss out on diversionary schemes. 

Public Safety, Public Trust

Police and Crime Commissioners (PCCs) can play a crucial role in tackling crime and addressing the needs of their communities. In this briefing, we call for PCCs to invest in diversionary schemes which best address the underlying causes of crime, highlighting successful initiatives from across England and Wales.