Our priorities

The Justice System and Penal Reform*

What would good look like?

An equitable justice system, with a greatly reduced prison population, which considers individual needs and potential, and places a focus on prevention and rehabilitation.

The conditions in UK prisons are very challenging, and high reoffending rates are a significant problem. There are disproportionate numbers of marginalised and excluded groups in prison, who have often faced multiple disadvantages before conviction.

Civil society organisations play a key role supporting individuals both within the justice system, or at risk of coming into contact with the system, but they face increasing demands whilst budgets are shrinking. They also shine an independent light on the justice system and hold the state to account.

We support organisations that work with people both within the justice system, or at risk of coming into contact with the system, that support individuals to resettle successfully in the community, and that are actively working to address disproportionality and promote a just and equitable system.

*Please note while the name of this priority changed in July 2022, the scope remains the same.

The next application deadline is:

26th April 2024

Grants range in size, with most grants awarded being in the range £10,000 to £30,000.

The A B Charitable Trust is happy to provide funding for core costs.