The report was commissioned by the Home Office to review and update knowledge of ‘what works’ in corrections to reduce re-offending. It identifies factors associated with offending, including problems with education, employment, accommodation, drugs and alcohol, mental health and social networks. It notes that some believe criminal history is a proxy for social and behavioural problems. The evidence suggests that offenders often have multiple problems, many of which contribute directly towards their offending. Consequently, it is now widely accepted that a multi-modal approach addressing multiple needs is likely to be the most effective way of reducing re-offending. The findings from a limited number of reconviction outcome studies of cognitive-behavioural programmes, including the sex offender treatment programme, in the UK Prison Service and National Probation Service, have shown some effectiveness with some offenders, but not all.The report is available at: http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/rds/pdfs04/hors291.pdf
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