THE Department of Home Affairs has reported an increase in the number of people sentenced to community service orders by the courts.
Working in conjunction with the Department of Social Care, the departments believe this practical approach is ensuring that offenders become productive members of society.
When a community service order is made by the courts, offenders are expected to perform unpaid work in their spare time. This covers a variety of tasks including painting and decorating, ground work, gardening and general maintenance on behalf of local charitable trusts or other non-profit making organisations."
This has now also been widened to include placements within social services.
Home Affairs Minister Adrian Earnshaw MHK said: "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 is 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."
Bill Malarkey MHK, political member for the Department of Home Affairs, said: "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."
Andrew Swithinbank, director of Social Services said: "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."
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