What matters is what you do: The rediscovery of skills in probation practice

This article discusses the recent emergence of practice skills or 'core correctional practices' as a focus for research and staff development in probation work. Starting with the gradual discovery of an empirical approach to practitioners' use of skills, the article reviews recent research on the nature and impact of skills in effective practice and argues the case for their development as a key strategy for improving probation services, provided that management systems adapt to recognise and encourage them.