The Northumbria Police force area has been selected to host an Intensive Supervision Court (ISC) designed to provide women with an alternative to prison. The court is expected to be operational by the end of 2026.
What is an Intensive Supervision Court?
ISCs are described as a problem-solving court model that supports women by allowing them to serve court-imposed orders in the community. This approach includes regular judicial monitoring and multi-agency support, aimed at breaking the cycle of reoffending by addressing the underlying issues that drive women into criminal behavior.
Funding and Expansion
The Ministry of Justice has announced £9 million in funding to create new ISC sites, building on early pilot programs such as the women's court in Birmingham. Four of the six new ISCs will be women's courts, reflecting the government's goal to reduce the number of women sent to prison.
Local Reaction
Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Susan Dungworth welcomed the initiative, expressing hope that it will reduce crime, cut reoffending, and improve outcomes for women offenders and victims. She stated: "So many reports and studies highlight the chaos and disruption caused to women and their families arising from prison sentences. The initiative presents a real opportunity for us to work differently with women offenders - in a more trauma informed, supportive and holistic way and through community-based alternatives."
Impact on Families
Dungworth emphasized the broader societal benefits, noting that when mothers go to prison, it significantly impacts children, causing trauma, social isolation, and shame. She added: "If we can reduce the impact of a prison sentence on women, hopefully it will reduce the risk of children following their mother into the criminal justice system - which can only be a good thing."
Additional Support
The PCC also committed to funding a voluntary step-down process for women after they complete their intensive supervision period, aimed at helping them adjust to independence without scrutiny or oversight. The Northumbria Intensive Supervision Court will be delivered in collaboration with criminal justice partners and agencies.
