Overview
The Children and Young People’s Centre for Justice (CYCJ) welcomes the opportunity to respond to the Scottish Government’s consultation on Voices in justice: parole reform. The consultation asks questions on a broad range of areas centred on parole improvements and parole reform.
Summary of CYCJ’s position
Our response to this consultation is drawn from our practice, participation, research and policy expertise and evidence. In it we identify several opportunities to create a more rights-based approach for the parole system. At the heart of any changes to the parole process must be the successful rehabilitation and reintegration of those who have caused harm back into the community. All decisions must be shaped by considerations of human rights, including the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), the evidence on neurodevelopment, and best practice on rehabilitation. We also believe the system should be improved for victims, enhancing their right to information and understanding of the process.