Policy
The Alliance of Sport in Criminal Justice has built an unrivalled network of policy-makers and key influencers so that through our members, we can design and deliver real system change. We help to lead, and represent the AoS network, on the following influential groups and panels:
UK Physical Activity, Health and Justice Taskforce
AoS serves as the secretariat for the Taskforce, bringing together senior government leaders who meet quarterly to review data and insights generated through AoS network activities. The Taskforce collaboratively develops and implements shared actions through a National Work Plan aimed at improving health outcomes and reducing offending. This work aligns with key UK government missions, including ‘Take back our streets’, ‘Break down barriers to opportunity’ and ‘Build an NHS fit for the future’.
UK APPG on Sport and Physical Activity in the Criminal Justice System
AoS serves as the secretariat for the UK All-Party Parliamentary Group which is the central, constructive and cross-party voice championing the role of physical activity in improving wellbeing and outcomes for individuals involved in, or at risk of entering the justice system.
HMPPS Effective Practice Sports Panel
AoS is proud to sit on the HMPPS Effective Practice Sports Panel, supporting its objectives and fostering collaboration between secure establishments and community organisations. By contributing our expertise, we aim to strengthen connections that drive effective physical education and activity programmes. These programmes are designed to enhance the health, wellbeing and rehabilitation of individuals in custody while creating sustainable pathways to employment, mentoring and community integration upon release. Through our advocacy and engagement with our Communities of Practice, we promote an evidence-informed approach which aligns with the over-arching goals of the justice system.
Sport and Crime Policy and Strategy Group
AoS is a member of the Sport and Crime Policy and Strategy Group, which was set up following the delivery of the Ministry of Justice’s £5million Youth Justice Sport Fund in 2022-23. The group, which is led by StreetGames and the Sport for Development Coalition, aims to develop and respond to recommendations within the fund’s evaluation report. These included calls for even greater use of innovative sports-based early intervention approaches for young people in a way that can help prevent the cycle of offending, minimise the long-term impact of criminal behaviour and support young people to find positive pathways. Read ‘Getting on Track’ policy brief.