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<p>There is a strong case to abolish sentences of six months or less, with some exceptions.
We are therefore exploring options to restrict the use of short custodial sentences,
but we have not at this stage reached any conclusions.</p><p>There is persuasive evidence
showing community sentences, in certain circumstances, are more effective than short
custodial sentences in reducing reoffending. The MoJ study ‘The impact of short custodial
sentences, community orders and suspended sentence orders on re-offending’ published
in 2015 found that over a 1-year follow up period, a higher proportion of people re-offended
having been sentenced to custody of under 12 months without supervision on release
than other similar people given community orders.</p><p>Unless we tackle the underlying
causes of offending, we cannot protect the public from being victims of crime. Effective
community orders can address offenders’ behaviour, answer their mental health and
alcohol or drug misuse needs, and provide reparation for the benefit of the wider
community.</p>
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