Persistent young offenders

17/02/2010

News ways of tackling young offenders ranging from early intervention for low level offending to tough sanctions for serious offenders will be tested in Grampian.

Part of the new approach will use tactics similar to those used to successfully engage with Glasgow gangs. The get tough tactics will involve police identifying those causing the most misery to communities and working with local agencies to offer an alternative to a life of crime. If the young offenders refuse to engage, they will feel the full force of the law.

It will also see local agencies engage with young offenders who are starting on a path to more serious crimes.

Click here for full article: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2010/02/17103357

Look how community service made a difference to these stairs in Irvine

A local Housing Officer enlisted the help of the North Ayrshire Community Service Team to paint and decorate the common entry and stairways in a range of Council houses. The end results have been highly praised by residents who have benefited from the work carried out by offenders.

Scott Sinclair carves out a career in hospitality

Five years ago, Scott Sinclair was ordered to carry out 250 hours of community service after he was caught stealing from his employer.

Scott's punishment involved refurbishing a skate park, gardening at an old people's home and completing a skills based course at Forth Valley College.

Says Scott, now 25, "The conviction completely destroyed my life at the time. I was in a bad place and thought community service was a waste of time. Manual labour seemed pointless and the course was pretty basic. But, I knew that stealing wasn't something I wanted to keep doing."

Fresh Start, the course specifically designed for offenders, includes three, ten week modules in problem solving, literacy and numeracy. Falkirk's community service team recognised the need to help offenders increase their confidence and employability, and encourage positive links from a life beyond offending.

Full article here: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Justice/public-safety/offender-management/projects/stories/scott-sinclair