Alternative to custody

New community payback scheme for Salford

From April 1 2009, some offenders will be working on projects to improve local communities, as an alternative to prison.

The pilot scheme will run in Manchester and Salford for two years, targeting young men aged 18 – 25, who would have been sentenced to prison for less than 12 months.

Known as 'Intensive Alternative to Custody' (IAC), the scheme is funded by the Ministry of Justice and delivered by the Probation Service, the council and local private sector and voluntary organisations.  It is designed to allow offenders to make reparation for the harm they have done to their local community, while supporting them to avoid re-offending.

IAC orders will last for 12 months. Offenders will work up to 30 hours a week, with an evening curfew.

Although the work will be unpaid, they will be supported by a mentor and encouraged to work towards gaining paid employment. However, if they fail to turn up for work, they could find themselves back in prison.

Probation Services hopes the scheme will play an important role in building ‘safer and stronger communities’.

For more information contact:

Paul Pandolfo
Business Manager IAC
Greater Manchester Probation Area
Quay House
Quay Street
Manchester M3 3JE
Telephone: 0161 830 2250 x1049

Email paul.pandolfo@manchester.probation.gsi.gov.uk

This page was last updated on 3 October 2009