Probation Service 'not good enough'

4:02pm Monday 16th July 2001

KENT Probation Service is providing an average service for above average cost, according to a government report.

Although there are no prisons in Gravesham or Dartford, other probation areas were included in the Home Office report measuring Kent against national standards.

Inspectors made 19 recommendations for improvement and have ordered a follow-up inspection.

The report said there had been a failure to improve compliance with high-risk offenders and cutting costs. The south east region is one of 10 areas due to be examined by the Government.

The inspectors were happy with the majority of Kent's probation service including the commitment shown by managers and staff supervising offenders and employment schemes.

Home Office minister Beverley Hughes said: “I am pleased Kent is performing so well on some national targets. I hope the follow-up inspection shows improvement. But it's true there are some deficiencies making the service not good enough. Managers and staff must put this right, and quickly.”

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