Intervention and Prevention

Working with people to help them reduce their offending is a key part of community supervision, whether it’s used instead of a prison sentence or as support after release on licence.

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Structured Deferred Sentences

A Structured Deferred Sentence is used for people who are at low or medium risk of reoffending. It can also help assess whether someone is suitable for a Community Payback Order.

Who is eligible?

A person may receive an Structured Deferred Sentence if they:

  • Have a less established pattern of offending
  • Are at lower risk of being sent to custody
  • Have identified needs linked to their offending behaviour
  • Are not already on another statutory order

Purpose of an Structured Deferred Sentence

An Structured Deferred Sentence aims to build motivation and support positive change.
It can help reduce how often someone offends or how serious their offending is.
It also helps avoid unnecessary supervision and may divert people away from the Justice System.

What does a Structured Deferred Sentence involve?

An Structured Deferred Sentence allows focused work on the areas where a person needs support.
Together, the person and their worker create an Action Plan targeting their specific risks and needs.
The approach is flexible and tailored to each individual.

Examples of work during a Structured Deferred Sentence

  • Engaging with addiction services
  • Support with emotional regulation
  • Exploring training or education options
  • Help accessing employability services
  • Support to communicate with tenancy providers
     

For more information contact the Justice Social Work Service

Justice Social Work Service
Fisherrow Centre, South Street, Musselburgh, EH21 6AT (access via Hercus Loan)
Telephone: 01620 827939 
Email: cjsupport@eastlothian.gov.uk

 

[i] Scottish Government (2015) What Works to Reduce Offending.