Probation Institute

As a centre of excellence for probation practice, we apply rigorous standards to the assessment of research, evidence, and emerging best practice. Our work brings together professional experience, research, and informed debate to support effective probation practice and public protection.

What we do

The Probation Institute provides professional leadership and development opportunities for practitioners and leaders working in rehabilitation and the protection of the public across the public, voluntary, and independent sectors.

We work to:

• Promote high professional standards and ethical practice

• Support learning, reflection, and continuous professional development

• Encourage informed professional discussion and debate

• Provide a strong, independent professional voice for probation

Through this work, we aim to strengthen probation practice and contribute to safer outcomes for individuals, communities, and the wider public.

Our charitable purpose

The Probation Institute is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO). Our charitable purpose is focused on the rehabilitation of people who have committed offences and the prevention of crime, primarily through the professional development of those working in probation and related fields. 

In pursuit of this purpose, we aim to:

• Develop the scope and practice of probation and related disciplines for the benefit of practitioners and the wider public

• Advance education, training, and professional effectiveness within probation services

• Encourage and share good practice and high professional standards through research and leadership

• Support and enhance the work of probation services and partner organisations by strengthening professional skills and knowledge

• Reduce the risk of re‑offending and the impact of crime on victims and communities by promoting excellence in practice

• Contribute to the protection of the public from harm across all socio‑economic and cultural groups

• Promote diversity, social inclusion, and anti‑discriminatory practice

• Collaborate with a wide range of educational, professional, and research organisations working in probation, rehabilitation, desistance, and resettlement

We believe that skilled, supported practitioners are central to effective rehabilitation and public protection.

Professional integrity and leadership

The Probation Institute operates to high standards of professional integrity and accountability. Our work is guided by an agreed Code of Ethics, which supports professionalism, evidence‑informed practice, and ethical conduct across the field. 

The Institute is led and governed by Trustees, committees, and Fellows who bring experience, challenge, and independent oversight to our work, helping guide our priorities and professional voice.

Our people

The Probation Institute is supported by a small staff team and a wider group of Trustees, Fellows, and advisers who contribute professional expertise and leadership.

You can view profiles of the Probation Institute Team, Patron, and Trustees by clicking on the images below.