Forces in Mind Trust has awarded £25,408 to the Probation Institute, working with Anglia Ruskin University and Cogito Developments, for a project to enhance the implementation of the recommendations of the “Journeys to Harmful Behaviour” report published in 2022.

Whilst the vast majority of Service personnel transition successfully into civilian life, a small number of veterans enter the criminal justice system. Recent research has identified the common factors that can influence this journey, and this project will aim to help reduce harmful outcomes for former Armed Forces personnel through supporting the implementation of the research recommendations.

Through collaboration with cross-sector leaders involved in the criminal justice system, the project will help them understand the recommendations and evidence, support them to build capacity for change in the key areas identified, and  help inform policy development.

Project lead, Helen Schofield, from the Probation Institute, commented “The Probation Institute is very pleased to continue working with our partners to support the recommendations from the important joint research in 2022, continuing to engage the many agencies that are essential to reduce the risk of serious offending by ex-Service personnel in the future.”

Chief Executive of Forces in Mind Trust, Michelle Alston, added “A small minority of ex-Service personnel become involved with the criminal justice system. Recent research has helped us to understand the experiences of some of this cohort but it is important to ensure this evidence can be used to address the challenges identified and improve the lives of former Service personnel and their families. We are therefore delighted to support this project, which focuses on implementing and sharing the key evidence, helping to support change and improve transition.”