Abstract

The variegated penal voluntary sector (PVS) is an important, complex and under-theorised area. The diverse non-profit, non-statutory organisations comprising the sector are highly significant in the operation of punishment around the world, but very little is known about the PVS and its work. Burgeoning scholarship has begun to examine specific parts of the sector, particularly individualised service delivery. I present a five paradigm PVS model, which offers a systematic means of conceptualising the whole PVS , by applying and extending Burrell and Morgan’s (1979) four paradigm model of social theory. I introduce a novel fifth paradigm, to reflect the (potential) roles of brokers in directing activity. Our politically enabling sociology of the PVS demonstrates the full (potential) spectrum of PVS activity. I hope that this will stimulate further nuanced PVS analyses and highlight (potential) strategies to challenge problematic carceral practices through inquiry, practice and activism.