A REHABILITATION programme funded by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Cleveland (OPCC) has been shortlisted for a national award.
Divert is a finalist in the prestigious Learning and Development Programme of the Year category of the Inspire Justice Awards.
The awards are organised by UK-wide charity Skills for Justice – the Sector Skills Council for the UK justice, community safety, fire and rescue, central and local government sectors.
Divert is led by Cleveland OPCC and run in partnership with Probation Service: North-East in collaboration with Cleveland Police.
Root of the problems
Matt Storey, Cleveland Police and Crime Commissioner, said: “Well done to our team and their partners for all of the hard work, which they’ve put into making this programme such a success.
“Divert is a perfect example of how helping people to beat the problems, which are at the root of their offending behaviour, helps steer them away from a life of crime.
“Less offending means less crime and fewer victims, which can only be good news for our communities in the long-term.”
Chief Inspector Jon Tapper from Cleveland Police’s Offender Management Team said: “I am very proud of the work being done in Cleveland to divert people away from the criminal justice system and having this work recognised nationally is a fantastic achievement.
“We’re committed to tackling criminals and arresting offenders but it’s crucial we look at longer-term solutions to reduce crime. By addressing offenders’ behaviours, we can divert them away from crime and help prevent re-offending.”
Tailored approach
Lisa Ayton, Head of Interventions for the National Probation Service North East Region, said: “Cleveland Divert offers early intervention for those on a pathway to a life of crime and the associated dangers, which not only reduces the likelihood of people entering the criminal justice system, but ultimately being defined by it.
“By using tailored approaches supporting individual needs, Divert increases the likelihood of life beyond offending.
“This approach offers a more holistic and constructive approach to addressing crime, benefiting individuals, communities, and the criminal justice system.
“We are delighted that our team has been nominated and incredibly proud of the teams work.
Divert aims to steer first time and low-level offenders away from the criminal justice system and towards support.
It signposts offenders towards help to address problems, which have led to their offending.
Instead of charging and prosecuting offenders, Divert provides a range of support called pathways. Pathways include help with mental health problems, substance misuse, education or housing.
Divert expects participants to take up the offer of support. If offenders do not complete their programme, they risk being charged and taken to court for their original offence.
Re-offending rates for people, who successfully complete the Divert programme, are dramatically lower than for those, who don’t take part.
Rates for successful Divert participants are just four per cent. That compares to latest Ministry of Justice (MOJ) figures, which show 32.1% of adults with a criminal record in Cleveland will re-offend within 12 months. That’s one of the highest rates in England and Wales.*
The day after the Inspire Justice Awards, Divert will receive a Certificate of Excellence at the Ruth Cranfield Awards in Durham.
The awards, organised by regional charity NEPACS, recognise those working successfully with offenders across the north east.
The Inspire Justice awards ceremony takes place on Thursday 12 September at the Queen Elizabeth II Centre, London. Winners and highly commended runners up will be announced on the day.