Institute of Criminology: 'The sentencing review and problem-solving courts' - Phil Bowen -

As part of the Institute of Criminology Michaelmas Term 2025 Public Seminar Series, Phil Bowen will speak on Sentencing and the future for problem-solving justice.

This lecture explores how sentencing policy and practice can evolve to better address the complex drivers of crime, drawing on recent national reviews and emerging innovations. The Sentencing Review led by David Gauke was an opportunity to consider whether traditional sentencing frameworks are fair, effective and proportionate. Similarly, Sir Brian Leveson’s recent review of the courts has highlighted the urgent need to rethink how our criminal justice system can operate more efficiently, fairly and effectively.

Against this backdrop, what role for problem-solving justice? Rooted in evidence, problem-solving justice seeks to tackle the underlying issues—such as addiction, mental ill-health, and persistent poverty—that drive repeated offending. With reference to the work of the Centre for Justice Innovation, the event will explore a range of ways in which problem-solving justice is and can change our justice system. It will consider the role of out of court resolutions, of how courts current administer and enforce fines, of intensive supervision courts and other emerging models of specialist, problem-solving courts and of more innovative ways to use technology in community sentences to deliver better outcomes for both individuals and communities.

This talk will examine what steps are needed to embed these innovations in mainstream practice and policy.

Phil Bowen is the Director of the Centre for Justice Innovation, Appointed to the role in 2012, he leads the organisation, setting and overseeing the implementation of its overarching strategy. Prior to being Director, Phil spent the majority of his career in the British civil service, working for the Home Office, Ministry of Justice, and as a delivery adviser to the Prime Minister on criminal justice reform.

The talk and question and answer session is scheduled for 5-6pm. Everyone attending in person is welcome to join a drinks reception following the talk 6-7pm. Please note seminars are recorded but Q&A sessions are not.

Date: Thursday, 27 November, 2025 - 17:00 to 19:00

Event location: Institute of Criminology Lower Ground Seminar Rooms

To register to attend in person, please click here.

To register to attend online, please click here.