The purpose of a Pre-Sentence Report is to provide information to the sentencing court about the offender and the offence which has been committed. It also helps the court decide on a suitable sentence by making recommendations. The production of a PSR involves interviewing the offender, reading court papers and an assessment of likelihood of reconviction and risk.

Types of Reports:

The framework for reports, established by the National Probation Directorate in consultation with sentencers, is intended to ensure that the Courts have a full picture on the cases that need it, including the more dangerous and prolific offenders. This procedure avoids unnecessarily involved (and lengthy) assessment in relatively straight forward cases.

Fast Delivery Reports (FDR):

These are the most used reports and can be interviewed, written and available at Court on the day - but may be adjourned to the next court sitting if it is not possible to produce on the same day. Fast Delivery Reports are for most levels of seriousness, but may not be appropriate where factors such as mental health concerns, child protection or domestic violence issues are present, or there are other serious offences of a sexual, violent or racially aggravated nature.

Standard Delivery Reports (SDR):

For completion on adjournment, based on a full risk assessment. Standard Delivery Reports are required for assessments for more serious offences including those offence types listed above.

Oral Reports:

These are delivered by officers in Court and can range from an update on current reporting to assist sentencing after an interview where the Court does not have time to await the completion of a written report.