The probation service has been in a continual state of reform and uncertainty for the past five years, and is now adapting to the challenges presented by Covid-19. Whilst the announcement is a welcome one, the new model is expected to go live in the summer of 2021 and the Committee recognise that this is a huge task to undertake in a year, particularly given the current circumstances. We recommend that the Ministry of Justice set out a detailed timeframe for the transition of the probation service to the new model. Additionally, the Ministry of Justice should keep the Committee updated on progress, including any potential delays to the transition. The probation service has been in a continual state of reform and uncertainty for the past five years, and is now adapting to the challenges presented by Covid-19. Whilst Coronavirus (COVID-19): The impact on probation systems 25 the announcement is a welcome one, the new model is expected to go live in the summer of 2021 and the Committee recognise that this is a huge task to undertake in a year, particularly given the current circumstances. We recommend that the Ministry of Justice set out a detailed timeframe for the transition of the probation service to the new model. Additionally, the Ministry of Justice should keep the Committee updated on progress, including any potential delays to the transition. (Paragraph 61) 26 Coronavirus (COVID-19): The impact on probation systems