Benefits

There are 2 major groups that benefit directly from the Crime Diversion Scheme, the prisoners themselves and the young people attending. However there are a number of other stakeholders who benefit at different levels, these are:

There are instant benefits to prisoners, most notably in gaining accreditation which can be used for obtaining employment. Rehabilitation of prisoners also benefits their families, prison officers and ultimately society. Improved behaviour of young people benefits their families, peers and communities.

The projects allow inmates to develop their communication and interpersonal skills through dealing with the groups and those delivering the training. The Crime Diversion Scheme also helps inmates to develop self-esteem, self-confidence and, for many, it provides direction in life for the first time. The project itself allows prisoners to rehabilitate as they guide and advise the vulnerable young people before them against making the same decisions they did. The Crime Diversion Scheme is also introducing a work placement element, which will provide a valuable opportunity for inmates to reintegrate back into society and the work place.

The geographical area of benefit is growing and groups attending have come from the following areas

cdslogo
CCDS Blend