25 May 1995

Dear Sir/Madam

COMMUNITY SERVICE BY OFFENDERS: REVISED NATIONAL OBJECTIVES AND STANDARDS

Summary

1. This circular notifies Local/Island Authorities of the issue of revised National Objectives and Standards for Community Service by Offender Schemes.

Background

2. The revised Objectives and Standards have been drawn up after widespread consultation with COSLA and other interested parties. The operation of Community Service schemes will continue to be monitored and kept under review by Social Work Services Group of The Scottish Office.

3. Your attention is drawn to the following addition to the original Standards:

a. The Criminal Justice (Scotland) Bill, on Implementation, will set out that where an offence is committed against the recipient of Community Service by an offender whilst undertaking the order, or within 3 months of its completion, the offence will be treated as an aggravation.

Appendix 3 to the revised Standards covers this aspect.

4. Contact Point

If you have any queries about the contents of this Circular, please contact Fiona Kos, Social Work Services Group, Room 13, James Craig Walk, Edinburgh EH1 3BA (telephone 0131 244 5440).

Yours faithfully

J KIRBY