Introduction
This topic deals with the logistical arrangements that govern how work parties are supervised and managed.
Purpose of arrangements
The purpose of the arrangements described in this topic is to:
- ensure the safety of staff and offenders, and
- enhance compliance.
Work party
A work party is a group of up to 10 offenders who work on a work project, usually away from the CWC site. A community work supervisor supervises each work party.
There can be several work parties working on a single project.
Work hours
Work hours for a work party should generally be 8 hours, but with provision for shorter and longer work party opportunities by negotiation and where practical.
Considering allocation
When considering the allocation of an offender to a programme or work party:
- review the placement assessment, and
- include the factors identified during the assessment interview that may affect the allocation, such as:
- age
- gender
- vulnerability
- seriousness and type of offence
- reporting availability
- restrictions through non-association orders, witness protection etc.
- physical and intellectual abilities
- medical and social factors
- gang associations
- existing skills, and
- cultural needs.
Include also in the considerations the:
- other members of the party
- experience of the community work supervisor, and
- gender mix of the work party.
Gender and work parties
Use the following guidelines when considering gender issues whilst setting up a work party.
- When a work party is made up only of offenders of the same gender, consider the risk to the community work supervisor and other offenders, and exercise common sense.
- When offenders making up the work party are of mixed gender, ensure that:
- there are at least two offenders of each gender in the work party
- the community work supervisor is suitable for such a work party, and
- gender-related problems are minimised.
- Use discretion and common sense when dealing with gender-related issues, including transgender issues.
If there is any doubt, discuss the issue(s) with the service manager.
