Intensive Supervision Courts: EOI information session

On 6th August 2025, the Ministry of Justice launched an Expression of Interest (EOI), inviting areas in England and Wales to pilot new Intensive Supervision Courts (ISCs). These courts aim to reduce persistent and prolific offending by addressing the underlying issues that lead to offending.

This recording is of our online information session about the current EOI process and how we can support interested areas. Speakers Hannah Fisher (Head of ISCs, HMPPS) and Rosie Melville (Head of ISCs, Ministry of Justice) shared learnings from the first four ISC pilots, outlined the EOI process, explained what they are looking for in submissions, and answered questions in a Q&A session at the end.

We also introduced our new ISC implementation framework, which outlines the core components of an effective problem-solving court model and provides guidance on how these courts can be implemented and embedded locally. Access it here: https://justiceinnovation.org/publica...

Problem-solving courts like ISCs tackle the root causes of offending through judicial oversight and tailored supervision and support. They have been shown to reduce re-offending and improve outcomes for individuals and communities.

This event is aimed at both statutory and voluntary agencies, including probation, HMCTS, judiciary, PCCs, women’s services, treatment providers, police etc., that are considering applying and want further information ahead of the submission deadline. EOI submissions close on 17 October 2025.

Currently, there are two main ISC models - one in the Crown Court aimed at people whose substance use fuels their repeat and persistent offending (currently operating in Bristol, Liverpool and Teesside) and a court focused on women in Birmingham magistrates’ court. The Ministry of Justice is encouraging applications which align with the existing ISC models, as well as proposals for new models targeting prolific offending.

The Centre for Justice Innovation supported the establishment of the first four Intensive Supervision Courts, including delivering the dedicated multi-agency training. We now offer support to areas developing ISCs, with thanks to the generous funding of the JABBS Foundation for Women and Girls and other funders.