New Support Service Aims tae Cut Reoffendin Rates

A fresh approach tae support individuals leain prison is set tae mak a significant impact on reducin reoffendin in Scotland. The new national throucare service, launched in April, aims tae extend support for thae released efter short-term sentences fae sax month tae a fu year. This initiative will include lads released fae remand, wha  received little tae nae assistance afore.

The service is designed tae help individuals reintegrate intae their communities an rebigg vital relationships. It offers mentorin, ane-tae-ane support, an guidance on accessin health care, hoosin, an benefits. By providin this type o support, the initiative sikks tae lawer crime rates an help individuals create better lives for theirsels an their faimilies.

Replacin the existin services kent as ‘Shine’ an ‘New Routes’, the national throucare service will ensure consistent support ower aw o Scotland, includin rural an island areas. The service is backed by £5.3 million in fundin ower the neist three years, delivered throu a pairtnership o third sector organisations led by Sacro, a community justice organisation.

Justice Secretary Angela Constance emphasised the importance o this support, statin, “It is critical that thae servin short sentences an periods o remand are supported whan released tae mak a safe transition back intae the community. This reduces the risk o reoffendin, resultin in less crime, fewer victims, an safer communities.”

Annie Mauger-Thompson, Chief Executive o Sacro, pynted oot the initiative’s collaborative naiture. “Whit maks this initiative sae pouerfu is hoo it haes bin shaped throu collaboration an listenin tae thae wi lived experience,” she said. The service haes bin designed wi inpit fae staff, stakehauders, an community pairtners tae meet real needs an provide trauma-informed support.

This new service merks a significant stap forrit in Scotland’s efforts tae reduce reoffendin an foster sustainable futures for individuals an their communities.