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 reoffend in Scotland. Da new national throucare service, laanched in April, aims tae extend support for dem released efter short-term sentences frae sax month tae a fu year. Dis initiative will include lads released frae remand, wha received little tae nae assistance afore.

Da service is designed tae help individuals reintegrate intae deir communities an rebigg vital relationships. It offers mentorin, ane-til-ane support, an guidance on accessin health care, hoosin, an benefits. By providin dis type o support, da initiative sikks tae laaer crime rates an help individuals create better lives for theirsels an deir faimilies.

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

Justice Secretary Angela Constance emphasised da importance o dis support, statin, “It is critical dat dem servin short sentences an periods o remand are supported whan released tae mak a safe transition back intil da community. Dis reduces da risk o reoffendin, resultin in less crime, fewer victims, an safer communities.”

Annie Mauger-Thompson, Chief Executive o Sacro, pynted oot da initiative’s collaborative naiture. “Whit maks dis initiative sae pouerfu is hoo it haes bin shaped throu collaboration an listenin tae dem wi lived experience,” she said. Da service haes bin designed wi inpit frae staff, stakehaaders, 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 deir communities.