Transformation in probation: the implementation of RNR in Flemish probation services

• In Event: Evaluating community sanctions and measures

Abstract

Within the Flemish probation service, there was a clear policy intention to introduce a working method based on the Risk-Need-Responsivity-Model of Bonta & Andrews (2017, 2024). The aim is to better support the professional judgment of probation officers and integrate risk management strategies in probation work. Although the effectiveness of RNR-focused parole work in reducing recidivism has been demonstrated (e.g. Eisenberg et al., 2019), implementation often proves to be challenging given that it requires a shift in mindsets of probation officers and in the way they practice their profession.
The implementation of such a new way of working cannot simply be imposed in a top-down way. Damschroder et al. (2009, 2022) developed a model to facilitate implementation processes and emphasized the need to test new innovations on a small scale first. For this reason, it was decided to test the innovations at one probation service in Belgium. In this presentation, we describe the main challenges encountered during this implementation process and how we dealt with them as well as the main results of the evaluation of this implementation process.

Authors

• Anna Marie Vansteenkiste, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium

• Hanne Willemen, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium

• Lars Breuls, Vrije Universiteit Brussel

• Kristof Verfaillie, Vrije Universiteit Brussel

• Kasia Uzieblo, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, The Forensic Care Specialists