Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, what steps her Department has taken to stop vetting processes barring those with criminal records being offered peer support roles in the justice sector.

The Ministry of Justice supports employment for people with lived experience of the criminal justice system, and we are committed to giving them the support they need to thrive.

The Department is responsible for the care, supervision and rehabilitation of thousands of people. As well as reducing re-offending, there is a duty to protect the public, and victims of crime. Security vetting is vital to ensure that we can deliver these objectives effectively.

For people with lived experience who are unable to attain security clearance, including for peer support roles, we have introduced two alternative entry schemes: Going Forward into Employment and Standard Plus. Applicants with recent offending history or who have recently left prison are risk-assessed for suitable roles within the organisation.

These schemes allow a more holistic approach to risk assessment, taking into account evidence of personal growth and rehabilitation, with a greater focus on how we can mitigate any risks, so that HM Prison & Probation Service (HMPPS) can make use of the skills and qualities that people with lived experience may be able to offer the organisation.

There are, however, certain offences that we consider to pose an unmanageable risk to the safety and security of HMPPS, those working in any capacity, for or on behalf of HMPPS, prisoners, people on probation, visitors, and the public. This may mean that individuals who have committed these offences may never be granted security clearance.