Abstract
The aim of this study was to critically assess the implementation and development of the Intensive Alternatives to Custody (IAC) pilot in Manchester and Salford. The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) Penal Policy paper (May 2007) outlined the government's intention to develop higher intensity community orders as an alternative to short term custody. The IAC Order was subsequently developed and piloted, first in Derbyshire and then in six other areas.* The pilots were centrally funded until March 2011.