Consultation on parole reform

Public protection at heart of plans to improve system.

A public consultation on reforming Scotland’s parole process has been published with the aim of improving the system so it better serves victims, people in custody, and justice professionals.

Voices in Justice: A Consultation on Parole Reform in Scotland seeks views on some issues raised by victims, specifically on improving transparency and communication of parole processes for victims and their families.

This builds on previous system reforms that strengthened victims’ voices, including establishing a dedicated victim team at the Parole Board for Scotland and introducing a mechanism to allow victims to attend and observe parole hearings.

The consultation focuses on two areas:

Transparency and Communication – considering how access to information can be improved to enhance understanding for victims, people in prison and others across the parole system.

The Parole System – seeking views on how the system could better function to support rehabilitation, public safety, and fairness.

The parole system must command the confidence of everyone it affects and work well for victims, their families, justice partners, and those seeking rehabilitation. We know it could be improved so we want to make further reforms based on the views of those it affects.

This consultation is an opportunity to gather all perspectives to deliver a parole process that is fair, transparent, and trusted. We want a system that puts people first while ensuring decisions are focused on public safety.

I encourage everyone with experience of the parole process to share their views. These insights are essential to shaping a system that reflects our shared values of justice, safety, and dignity.
CABINET SECRETARY FOR JUSTICE AND HOME AFFAIRS, ANGELA CONSTANCE

Background

Consultation document and online submission form.

The consultation will run for 12 weeks, with in-person events across Scotland and an accessible online platform for submissions.

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