Salford scheme to cut alcohol fuelled crime

A new initiative to prevent alcohol-fuelled criminals from re-offending by enrolling them in treatment has been launched in Salford.

The Bail Conditions Scheme, which is being overseen by Salford Drugs and Action Team (DAAT), is the first of its kind anywhere in Greater Manchester and is being unveiled as Alcohol Awareness Week starts on 7 May.

It means any adult charged with alcohol-related assault or domestic violence is automatically referred to an alcohol treatment worker as a condition of their bail.

The worker will look at links between the offender’s current drinking patterns and their violent behaviour and talk through the issues that could help prevent a repeat offence.

All offenders are required to meet with their alcohol worker at least twice before attending Salford Magistrates and details of their attendance may be taken into consideration during sentencing.

The programme is being run in partnership with Salford Magistrates Court, Salford Probation service, Greater Manchester Police, the CPS, the Salford Alcohol Service, Turning Point and the Salford DAAT.

Steve Morton, Campaigns Co-ordinator for Salford DAAT, said:

“This is an important and innovative step towards dealing with alcohol-related violent offences in a much better way.

“Alcohol Awareness Week is all about tackling the tough issues surrounding alcohol misuse and its affects.

“This scheme should cut down on the number of re-offenders by helping people to become more aware of their problems and providing the support they need to beat their dependency.”

The Alcohol Bail Conditions Scheme is expected to refer more than 30 people a month into alcohol services.

As part of the on-going fight to improve services, a new type of community order that aims to get dependent drinkers into treatment will be introduced later.

Alcohol Treatment Requirements (ATRs) will see offenders required to complete a six-month programme to deal with their drinking.

Any offender not engaged in either of these schemes can also voluntarily access alcohol treatment. Salford Alcohol Service has a criminal justice Alcohol worker who accepts referrals from the police, probation, courts and prisons.

Home Office - press release