The Sentencing Academy has now published a series of key facts on changing sentencing trends over the past twenty years, as part of their newly launched Sentencing Hub.
Key findings are as follows:
- The volume of sentences being passed has fallen significantly, from circa 1.5 million in 2005 to less than 900,000 in 2025. This decline reflects several factors including a drop in crime rates and possible changes in charging practices.
- Over the same time period, the use of fines increased to more than two thirds of all sentences passed. Proportionate use of Community Orders more than halved and custodial and suspended sentences increased.
- Between 2010 and 2024, the average custodial sentence length increased by 45% (from 13.7 to 19.9 months).
- For the most serious offences, the average sentence length increased by 81% (from 38.7 months in 2010 to 70 months in 2024).
- Between 2005 and 2023, the average number of reoffences per offender increased by 52% (from 3.1 to 4.7) for all offences.
To read the full report, click here.