What Works?

The recent interest in ‘What Works’ by both the Scottish and UK governments, reflects a growing body of literature in criminology that points to certain types of interventions thought to reduce offending behaviour. The literature highlights different aspects of treatment programmes found to be effective in addressing offending and cognitive behaviour, thus linking it to cognitive-behavioural approaches. More detailed information on cognitive-behavioural approaches can be found elsewhere on the CJSW website, but in essence these methods are designed to challenge offenders’ anti-social beliefs and attitudes, while equipping them with the necessary skills to address their problems and offending behaviour.  

The What Works initiative was particularly influential in England and Wales, transforming the probation service in the 1990s. Although less prominent in Scotland, particular areas of the criminal justice system have shown an interest in evidence-based practice, particularly among practitioners working with young offenders and drug users.

For more information on the What Works initiative in England and Wales visit the Home Office website. Information on the Scottish context can be found on the Scottish Government website.  

A CJSW briefing paper on What Works in Community Service is available here. 

The Centre holds a small number of books on What Works, details of which can be found here.