The newly established Justice Community Network (JCN) is seeking an appropriate Service Provider/Consultant to support key objectives in the establishment, developing the strategic and operational plans of the network. A nominated group of three members of the JCN Steering Group will oversee the process of review of proposals and the delivery of the objectives noted below. 

Introduction to the Justice Community Network (JCN)

In 2024, up to 60 organisations operating in the Irish criminal justice sector and funded by the Probation Service came together with the goal of forming a network. After months of meetings led by a Steering Committee of the organisations, the Justice Community Network was established. 

These organisations, local, regional and national, referred to as Community Based Organisations (CBOs), occupy a significant role in the achievement of the Probation Service Strategy. As was noted in an independent evaluation and review of the funding programme of CBOs undertaken by Crowe, “from a strategic perspective, the allocation of funds to CBOs holds significant merit for the Probation Service. These organisations occupy a pivotal role in the reduction of criminal activities within local communities...” [1] 

The Crowe report also notes the following key finding: “The provision of services through funding provided by the Probation Service to the CBOs is of significant value and is an important element in ensuring that the Probation Service meets its statutory objectives…”[2]

A significant finding was the need for the means for the CBOs to be supported in networking, collaborating, sharing information and working collectively for greater impact. This was extended to include the CBOs having more influence on the Probation Service, criminal justice policies and strategic decision-making.

With this endorsement, the CBOs proceeded in establishing the Justice Community Network. Led by a steering committee made up of representative from across the geographic spread of the CBOs, the JCN is now seeking to engage service providers/consultants to support key areas for development in order to progress the network more formally.

The estimated value of this contract is no more than €25,000 inclusive of VAT.

For further information please see the attached document.

[1] Section 2.2.1, p.13 Evaluation and Review of the Probation Service Funding Programme for Community-Based Organisations, Crowe, November 2023

[2] Section 2.2.1, p. 14 Evaluation and Review of the Probation Service Funding Programme for Community-Based Organisations, Crowe, November 2023