Social Work Scotland response to Voices in Justice: Parole Reform in Scotland consultation
11 November 2025
Introduction
Social Work Scotland is the professional body for social work leaders, working closely with our partners to shape policy and practice, and improve the quality and experience for those involved in the criminal justice system, who require a social work service. As an organisation and across our members we are committed to service improvement and ongoing development, based on evidence and research on how we can best meet the needs of those we work with and particularly those who experience the greatest challenges and barriers to their wellbeing and lives.
Social Work Scotland represents social work leaders across Scotland. The profession is based on the principles of human rights, reflecting the value of all individuals and upholding their rights. This is expressed in the SSSC Codes of Practice and in the BASW code of ethics. These underline the inherent worth and dignity of all people, demonstrated in practice through relationships and promotion of self-determination, participation and wellbeing. However, there is a challenge in working with individuals in the criminal justice system, who are often a stigmatised group, hence the need to advocate on their behalf. Contributing to release planning and the parole process is a key element of our work in Justice Social Work.
Social Work Scotland welcomes the opportunity to respond to this consultation. This response is based on consultation and discussion with our membership which covers senior leaders in social work, including Chief Social Work Officers and senior members of our Justice Standing Committee.
