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. E new national throucare service, laanched in April, aims tae extend support for thae released efter short-term sentences fae sax month tae a fu year. Iss initiative will include loons released fae remand, fa received little tae nae assistance afore.

E service is designed tae help individuals reintegrate intae their communities an rebigg vital relationships. It offers mentorin, een-til-een support, an guidance on accessin health care, hoosin, an benefits. By providin iss type o support, e initiative sikks tae laaer crime rates an help individuals create better lives for themsels an their faimilies.

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

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

Annie Mauger-Thompson, Chief Executive o Sacro, pynted oot e initiative’s collaborative naiture. “Fit maks iss initiative sae pouerfu is foo it his bin shaped throu collaboration an listenin tae thae wi lived experience,” she said. E service his bin designed wi inpit fae 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 their communities.