Example 2: Evaluating a ‘Diamond’ Approach to Integrated Offender Management

Abstract

In 2008/2009 there was a compelling case for developing a ‘Justice Reinvestment’ model of offender management within London. That is, shifting resources from universal financial budgets to needy geographic areas. Drawing on the ‘Million Dollar Blocks’ concept developed in the USA and Integrated Offender Management (IOM) principles, London launched the Diamond Initiative, which set out to manage non-statutory short-sentence prison release offenders in some of London’s most challenging areas. This was designed and launched deliberately as a landmark scheme and was supported by approximately 11 million pounds for its 2-year duration. It was conceptualised as London’s first IOM scheme and was the subject of high political and ministerial interest. We were asked to undertake an evaluation of the programme. Reflecting this importance the authors were determined to design an evaluation that would stand up to the firmest of academic and political critiques. The Initiative was explored through a variety of ‘theories of change’: (1) Staff matter for success; (2) offenders want to change and will accept offers of help; (3) offending declines if (1) and (2) work well and (4) the outcome costs the taxpayers less. These were tested through an evaluation that considered both the implementation and impact (on staff awareness, offending and economic cost benefit) of the Diamond Initiative using a variety of methodologies. These were the following: