Breaking through the noise: why we’re launching the Common Ground Justice Project

With prisons full, courts in crisis, reoffending sky-high and victim satisfaction at rock-bottom, our justice system is in urgent need of fresh thinking.

Yet the UK’s debate on crime and justice is less of a conversation and more of a shouting match. 

Punishment vs rehabilitation.

‘Tough’ vs ‘soft’ justice. 

Prison expansion vs prison abolition. 

These battles generate a lot of heat but not much light, sustaining an outdated justice system that’s letting down victims and wider society.

How can we break through the noise? We believe it’s not by shouting louder, but by listening deeper. 

That’s why we’re launching the Common Ground Justice Project – a new pilot in partnership with the Centre for Justice Innovation, More In Common and British Future. By engaging people across divides, we’ll uncover the common ground for a new way forward: towards a modern justice system that delivers for all of society with broad public support.

As two colleagues behind the success of pioneering resettlement charity Switchback, we’re excited to embark on this new venture, backed by our brilliant pilot partners and advisory board packed with lived and learned expertise.

We’ll be sharing more information about our 2025 pilot soon.

In the meantime, travel with us, learn more and sign up for updates at commongroundjustice.uk.