Agenda item

The Panel received a presentation from the PCVC on reducing re-offending which was both an objective in the Police, Crime and Victims’ Plan and one of the key objectives in the Local Criminal Justice Plan for Durham and Cleveland which was published by the PCVC and the PCC for Cleveland in January 2018 (for copy of slides see file of Minutes).

Councillor Boyes informed the meeting that any crime reduction strategy and strategy to reduce re-offending required partners to work together and asked whether there was any appetite from partners, for example housing providers and employers to participate in such strategies.

The PCVC replied that work with partners was essential adding that some were already very good.  The Chief of Staff added that while some of the work with employers had proven to be challenging, some employers such as Timpson’s had a number of their stores managed by ex-offenders and considered ex-offenders as some of their best employees.  Attempts were being made to employ ex-offenders in particular roles within the Constabulary where possible and some Checkpoint navigators had an offending history.

Councillor Knowles informed the panel that some ex-offenders may have never been employed and therefore would need support.  With regard to accommodation, some areas may not be suitable for ex-offenders to be located.

Resolved:

That the report be noted.