The Community Service Order (CSO) in Ireland is undergoing a period of significant review and transition, reflecting its growing importance as an alternative to short-term custodial sentences. This shift aligns with broader policy and research advocating for community service as a more effective and rehabilitative response to offending than custodial sentences. Accordingly, the Probation Service commissioned two key studies in recent years, examining both the policy framework and operational dimensions of the CSO, the findings from which it is currently advancing. The present review was initiated in response to a specific recommendation for an evaluation of the Integrated Community Service (ICS) scheme, to determine whether it is operating as intended and achieving its full potential.