Electronic monitoring

Electronic monitoring (also known as tagging) is used to help people stay safely in the community at different stages of their court or prison journey. If the court, prison or parole board asks us to, we will assess whether a person is suitable for electronic monitoring and explain what happens next.

When electronic monitoring can be used

From 17 May 2022, electronic monitoring can be used in five situations:

Bail: A court can ask for electronic monitoring as a condition of bail. This usually means the person must stay at a set address during certain times.

Community Payback Order: Electronic monitoring can be added when someone receives a Community Payback Order. It may be used to support them in completing the order safely in the community.

Temporary release from prison: Electronic monitoring can be used when someone is allowed out of prison for a short time. It helps make sure they follow the rules of their release.

Parole or non-parole licence: The Parole Board may use electronic monitoring as a licence condition when a long term prisoner is released from prison.

Restriction of Liberty Order: The Court may impose a stand alone Order to use electronic monitoring to restrict a person to their home for up to 12 hours a day.

How we assess suitability

If electronic monitoring is being considered, we will meet the person and look at:

• the address where they would stay
• who else lives there and whether they agree
• any risks or safety concerns
• the person’s ability to follow the rules of the monitoring period

We will then send our assessment to the court, prison service or parole board so they can make a decision.

What electronic monitoring involves

If electronic monitoring is approved, the person will:

• wear an electronic tag on their ankle
• have to stay at a certain place during set times – and/or not be allowed to go to a certain address at all, e.g. that of a victim
• be checked by a monitoring provider to make sure they follow the rules

If the rules are broken, the court or prison may take further action.

Get help or find out more

If you have questions about electronic monitoring or an assessment, contact Justice Social Work.