The partnership approach – an assessment of the present and future

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to offer an assessment of the partnership approach to reducing crime and disorder after 30 years of experience.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper provides an overview of developments in the partnership approach, identifying shifts in the conceptual and operational frameworks over time, as difficulties emerged. The extent to which the partnership approach has been successful is discussed and the prospects for the future role of the partnership working are assessed.

Findings

Despite continued problems in relation to information sharing and the identification of clear structures of leadership within partnerships, the overall balance sheet is a positive one. It is suggested that the development of “neighbourhood management” provides the partnership approach with a mechanism that will allow the partnership approach to play a key role in the future reduction of crime and disorder in a period of constrained public sector finance.

Originality/value

The paper provides a rationale for the partnership approach remaining at the centre of the Ministry of Justice's programme for “Transforming Justice”.

Citation

Houghton, J. (2012), "The partnership approach – an assessment of the present and future", Safer Communities, Vol. 11 No. 2, pp. 105-110. https://doi.org/10.1108/17578041211215339