Community Sentences

A Community Payback Order is given by the Court to help someone address their offending behaviour.
It can include up to ten different requirements, each designed to support change, repay the community, or protect the public. The possible requirements are:

1. Supervision
Lasts 6 months to 3 years.
You meet regularly with a Social Worker.
A full assessment and Case Management Plan will be created to address issues linked to offending.

2. Unpaid Work or Other Activity
Between 20 and 300 hours of unpaid work to give back to the community.
“Other Activity” can include training or education to build skills and support positive change.

3. Programme Requirement
A structured programme to address offending behaviour.
May be group or individual work (e.g., Caledonian, Moving Forward to Change).

4. Compensation
You must pay compensation to the victim of your offence.

5. Residence Requirement
You must live at a specific address.

6. Mental Health Treatment
Used when a diagnosed mental health condition or learning disability contributes to offending.
Treatment is provided by mental health services.

7. Drug Treatment
For drug dependency linked to offending.

8. Alcohol Treatment
For alcohol dependency linked to offending.

9. Conduct Requirement
Sets rules you must follow to reduce the risk of reoffending or stop behaviour that increases risk.

10. Restricted Movement
You may be required to stay at one address for up to 12 hours a day, and/or avoid another address for up to 24 hours a day. This can last for up to 12 months.