Nacro welcomes announcement on roll out of liaison and diversion service across England by 2020

Nacro chief executive, Jacob Tas, today welcomed government announcement that it will fund the roll out of liaison and diversion service across England by 2020.
“This is momentous news. Liaison and diversion is a critical early intervention. It works to address, at the earliest opportunity, the complex problems that so many people in the criminal justice system have. Too many people get caught up in the criminal justice system because of poor mental health, addiction or homelessness. Too many have a learning disability or have been victims of sexual exploitation, suffered brain injury or trauma and post traumatic stress. While these are not excuses for committing a crime, we have failed for too long to respond adequately to the complicated problems people in contact with the police and courts face. Liaison and diversion is a practical response. It takes the steps needed to respond to problems in order to break the chronic cycle of reoffending and reduce the cost of poor health in many communities across the country.

“This is a bold announcement by the government. It recognises that reducing crime and improving lives requires radical change. Getting in early makes sense. It prevents more victims, saves money and improves lives. Nacro has been developing liaison and diversion services for more than 25 years; we have been campaigning for it ever since. We believe that with the right support people can move forward and leave their offending behind them. Better health is a vital part of this change. We are delighted that the government has agreed and, alongside our many partners and charities across the country, we welcome the announcement today.”