Commenting on third sector involvement in running prisons, Turning Point's Assistant Director of Strategic Development, Sue Harris says: "Although it is Turning Point's policy not to comment on specific ongoing business tenders, it is important to point out that we are delighted that new, innovative ways of working in the criminal justice system are being created."

Commenting on the publication of the Welfare Reform Green Paper on Monday, Turning Point's Chief Executive, Lord Victor Adebowale, says:"I welcome the Government's aim to reach those furthest from the job market, with one fact in mind: if you have been claiming Incapacity Benefit for more than two years, you are more likely to die or retire than get a job. This Green Paper starts to address that. However, let's not talk tough on benefits for the sake of it: let's do what works best, for the economy and for the individuals in question. Most of Turning Point's employment support clients, who have a history of drug problems, are desperate to get their lives back on track and move into work. They need trained advisors working with them to set the individual pace at which they do this.

Commenting in advance of the Government's Youth Crime Action Plan, Turning Point's Chief Executive Lord Victor Adebowale says: "As Chair of the London Youth Crime Prevention Board, I know that we need a stronger safety net of prevention for our young people. We need initiatives like making schools safer, whilst also providing better support for victims of crime and their families."

Commenting on the publication of the Darzi Strategy on Primary and Community Care today, Turning Point's Chief Executive, Lord Victor Adebowale, says: "I strongly welcome the commitment to provide integrated care, and the aspiration to make services work for those people who have the most complex needs. Social care is often what makes the most practical difference to people from our poorest communities.

"Lord Darzi's timely review of the NHS is to be welcomed, particularly the emphasis on integrating health and social care. The focus of recent debate has been largely on the impact for hospitals and GPs, ignoring the need for links with social care services. These are often what make the most practical difference to people with the most complex needs."