The Department of Home Affairs Probation Service has recently seen a number of success stories with community service offenders. When a Community Service Order is made by the Courts offenders are expected to perform unpaid work in their spare time. This work is deemed useful to the community and to complete a community service order requires a disciplined and committed approach by the offender. Minister for Home Affairs Hon Adrian Earnshaw MHK commented: “The preference of Community Service as a sentencing option by the Courts has been evidenced by the increased numbers of late. This has resulted in a demand for additional placements in order to combat the ever increasing waiting lists. The criteria on agreeing placements has meant that the options are limited and so this year has seen a renewed working relationship between the Probation Service and other parts of government, like Social Services and local authorities such as Douglas Corporation in terms of offering projects and placements which was extremely welcome. I am pleased to report that waiting lists have now substantially reduced and more hours are being worked in the Community than previously. There have been a number of success stories, with Community Service proving a pathway to securing paid employment, and with unemployment being a well-recognised factor contributing to likelihood of offending this can only be a positive move forward.” Member for Home Affairs Mr Bill Malarkey MHK added: “Community Service work is identified and organised by the Department’s Community Service Officers, Dawn Cubbon and Tim Dunne. They interview each offender and determine the most suitable placement. These can be individual placements or work on group projects. A variety of tasks are undertaken, including painting and decorating, ground work, gardening and general maintenance on behalf of local charitable trusts or other qualifying non-profit-making organisations. To complete a Community Service Order requires a disciplined and committed approach from the offender and they provide an effective contribution to their community.” Andrew Swithinbank Director of Social Services explained: “These opportunities have now been widened to include placements with Social Services. The extra work of a few ‘volunteers’ has been greatly appreciated by people providing services for a range of adults who need care and support. Working in this environment has provided a challenge to those on Community Service Orders. They not only gain vocational skills and preparation for paid employment but also increase their social awareness, sense of responsibility and appreciation of those with social care needs. This helps them to reintegrate and become productive members of society contributing to the economy and community”. Ends