Commentary on Sections Part 9: Sanctions Etc. Section 88: Curfew orders and supervision orders
173.This section introduces Schedule 2 which amends the existing provisions relating to supervision orders and curfew orders. Curfew orders and supervision orders are both community sentences. Supervision orders are available only for offenders aged under 18. Curfew orders require the offender to remain for specified periods at a specified place. This may reduce the risk of further offending. A curfew order can be monitored electronically. A supervision order can include a range of requirements, such as a requirement to participate in specified activities or a requirement to make specified reparation. A supervision order lasts for at least 6 months but not more than 3 years.
174.Schedule 2 increases the maximum length of a curfew order for an offender aged 10 but under 16 from 3 months to 6 months. The Schedule makes it clear that a curfew order and a supervision order may be imposed at the same time. It increases the maximum period during which the offender may be required by a supervision order to comply with specific directions of the supervising officer or specific requirements of the court as to activities etc. from 90 days to 180 days.
175.Schedule 2 also enables the court to include in a supervision order a requirement that the offender live with local authority foster parents for a specified period of not more than 12 months (extendable for up to 18 months.). This new requirement is available only in the case of an offender who would otherwise meet the criteria for a custodial sentence and whose offending is to a great extent due to his home circumstances.