Parole Review Committeedeciding who is safe for release from prison
Photo courtesy of the Guernsey Press.
What does the Parole Review Committee do?
Summary
The Parole Review Committee is the independent body that makes decisions about:
- whether prisoners are safe to be released early from prison, under strict supervision
- whether those released on parole need to be returned to prison if they do not comply
The Committee is made up of nine members, including the Chair. Decisions are made by four members drawn from the Committee.
Responsibilities
You will be:
- Reading and analysing complex background information
- Meeting as a team to review cases
- Making sound decisions that you can justify
How do you get appointed?
Appointment process
From time to time, the Committee for Home Affairs advertises for new members of the Parole Review Committee to replace people who have stood down.
To apply, you will complete an application form and will be called for an interview if you are shortlisted.
You will be required to undertake an Enhanced Police Check prior to appointment.
Parole Review Committee members are appointed by the Royal Court. Only the Chairperson is appointed by the States of Deliberation.
Exclusions
You cannot be a Parole Review Committee member if you are:
- a deputy
- a member of the judiciary
- employed in the criminal justice system
- employed by the States of Guernsey
What skills do you need?
Skills
You don’t need any formal qualifications to join the Committee. Members are appointed for the qualities and experience they can bring to the role from their own lives.
You will need to demonstrate excellent communication skills, both written and oral.
You will need to act with integrity and deal with sensitive information in a confidential manner.
Knowledge of the criminal justice system and experience in undertaking risk assessments is desirable.
What support or training is there?
Support and training
There is a comprehensive training programme for all new members.
The training will introduce you to all aspects of the criminal justice process, including prison life and the role of the probation service.
What's the time commitment?
Time commitment
Two or three afternoons a month (including reading time). The work is flexible, and you can arrange it to fit around other commitments. Meetings are scheduled five months in advance and you receive the paperwork two weeks in advance of the meeting.
You are appointed for twelve years, although you may step down at any time. You must retire after twelve years or on your 70th birthday, whichever is sooner.
Do you get paid?
Remuneration
You can claim £76 per half-day for attending meetings.
Limited expenses will be reimbursed.
Rewards and downsides
Rewards
You will be protecting the community by making important decisions on the future of people who have served the punishment part of their sentence. These decisions are vital in ensuring justice, fairness and the protection of the public.
Downsides
It is not a public facing role. The Committee meets in private and considers sensitive information which can sometime be onerous.
Where can I find out more?
More information
Go to: gov.gg/ParoleReviewCommittee.
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