800 years of progress: what has changed and what remains?

In 1225, the Magna Carta laid the foundation for the rule of law in England—a bold declaration that justice should be accessible, fair, and accountable. Eight centuries later, we continue to build on that legacy, striving to deliver justice for all in a world that has grown more complex, diverse, and interconnected.

As the Justice for All Series launches with a reflection on the Magna Carta and UN Sustainable Development Goal 16, we at Serco are proud to contribute to this conversation. As operators of five adult prisons in the UK, we are committed to delivering safe, effective, and humane prison management. But we also recognise that justice is a journey – and there is still much to do.

What has changed?
The UK’s justice system has evolved dramatically since the 13th century. We’ve seen the development of independent courts, the expansion of legal rights, and the emergence of rehabilitation as a core principle of custodial care. Technology, psychology, and data now play a central role in how we manage prisons and support individuals in
custody.

At Serco, we’ve embraced this evolution. Our approach is rooted in respect, dignity, and the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to change. From therapeutic communities to digital innovation, we are working to create environments that support rehabilitation and reduce reoffending.

What remains?
Despite progress, persistent challenges continue to shape the justice landscape:

Overcrowding and capacity pressures
UK prisons are under strain. Occupancy rates are nearing 100%, with many prisoners sharing cells designed for one. Overcrowding contributes to increased violence, reduced access to education and healthcare, and diminished opportunities for rehabilitation.

Reoffending and reintegration
Reoffending rates remain high—especially among those serving short sentences. Without stable housing, employment, and community support, many individuals struggle to reintegrate successfully. Rehabilitation must extend beyond the prison walls.

Systemic strains
Staff are often stretched thin, focusing on crisis management rather than purposeful activity. Delays in sentencing and court processes add further pressure, creating uncertainty for those in custody and their families.

Serco’s response: Innovation with purpose
We believe that innovation must serve humanity. That’s why we’ve invested in new approaches that address these challenges head-on:

Therapeutic Communities
At HMP Dovegate and HMP Ashfield, we operate the UK’s only privately owned therapeutic communities (TC). These are purpose-built environments where residents work with psychologists to change thinking and behaviour. A TC uses the peer community to facilitate social and psychological change, providing 24/7 therapy, and supporting people in prison with their rehabilitation through structured therapy sessions, counselling, skill-building activities and an emphasis on personal responsibility and accountability.

It’s a model that puts rehabilitation at the heart of prison life.

Education, skills and employment pathways

At the heart of rehabilitation is the belief that people can change—and that change is most sustainable when individuals are equipped with the tools to succeed. That’s why education, skills development, and meaningful work are central to our approach to prison management.

Across our prisons, we provide access to accredited education, vocational training, and employment opportunities that mirror real-world environments. From construction and catering to digital literacy and business skills, our programmes are designed to build confidence, capability, and a sense of purpose.

We also work closely with employers and training providers to ensure that the skills developed in custody are relevant and transferable. This includes supporting prisoners to gain industry-recognised qualifications and preparing them for employment upon release.

In-Cell Technology

We’ve introduced in-cell digital platforms that allow residents to access education, mental health resources, and secure communication with families. This reduces isolation, improves behaviour, and supports engagement with rehabilitation. With a high adoption rate of over 75%, it proves that positive impact can come through intelligently applied technology.

Electronic Prisoner Property Management System (EPPMS)

Our EPPMS digitises property records, reducing loss and frustration. It’s a simple change that makes a big difference to dignity and trust.

Psychological Services

Serco self-delivers psychological services at scale, offering tailored interventions that help individuals change behaviour and reduce the risk of reoffending. Our psychologists also train staff to extend therapeutic support beyond formal sessions.

Sustainable Design at HMP Fosse Way

HMP Fosse Way is a blueprint for the future – combining modern architecture with renewable energy, smart building systems, and extensive EV infrastructure. It’s the greenest prison ever constructed in the UK.

Accelerate@Serco Innovation Lab

Through our innovation lab, we’re partnering with startups to bring fresh thinking into the justice sector – from behaviour analytics to IoT-enabled “connected prisons.”

The next five years offer a chance to accelerate progress. By continuing to invest in people, technology and partnerships, we can build a justice system that truly delivers for all. At Serco, we’re committed to being part of that journey – learning from the past, responding to the present, and shaping a better future.

Justice is not just about laws and institutions. It’s about people. And it’s about the belief that everyone deserves the chance to grow, change, and contribute.