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<p>There is a case to abolish or restrict the use of sentences of six months or less,
with some exceptions, and we are working towards having firm proposals by the summer.</p><p>The
sentencing framework already gives courts the flexibility to select community order
requirements which are a robust alternative to custody, and are tailored to address
the specific issues that contribute to reoffending. Community sentences, in certain
circumstances, are more effective in reducing reoffending, and therefore keeping the
public safe. We must ensure the public and judiciary have confidence in effective
community orders, including those which address offenders’ behaviour, answer their
mental health and substance misuse needs and provide reparation for the benefit of
the wider community.</p><p>Confidence in community sentences starts with confidence
in the probation services that deliver them and our probation reforms are designed
to achieve this. Bringing all offender management responsibilities under the National
Probation Service and having a more clearly defined role for the private and voluntary
sectors in delivering interventions are intended to strengthen sentencer and public
confidence in probation. Our changes will also ensure a wider range of rehabilitative
programmes, so that courts can better tailor community sentences to the individual
needs of offenders.</p>
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