Formative Evaluation of the Electronic Monitoring (EM) Synergy Project

The overall aim of the Synergy Project is to ensure an effective and consistent (locally led and adapted as necessary) approach to the use of EM as a tool to support offender management across Wales in order to contribute towards reduced reoffending and enhanced public protection. WestPoint Research, in partnership with Cardiff University, was commissioned to carry out a formative evaluation of the project in its pilot phase. The evaluation was primarily qualitative and focused on:

• Examining the views of key practitioners from the relevant criminal justice agencies and the contractor
• Developing recommendations for promoting best practice in EM across all relevant agencies, in support of the Integrated Offender Management (IOM) Cymru

WestPoint Research and Cardiff University produced an overview of key findings that served as an evidence base to further develop the project and embed innovative uses of EM into offender management in South Wales. The research team are in discussion with project leads to revisit the project and incorporate a longitudinal research aspect into further evaluation work.