Offenders carry out £180k of unpaid work

Offenders on the island of Jersey completed more than 16,000 hours of community service in 2024, according to new figures.

Jersey Probation and After-Care Service's (JPACS) annual report said the amount equated to £186,496 worth of unpaid labour for charitable and non-profit-making organisations in Jersey.

One of the aims of JPACS is to supervise offenders who have been released from prison for a period of time due to good behaviour, and make sure they do not re-offend.

Mike Cutland, chief officer, said the results were a testament to his team's "professionalism and commitment".

"Colleagues often undertake work with clients in difficulty who can display challenging behaviours that are unsettling and require a skilled response," he added.

"We strive for [an] excellent public service and value for money within a framework of continuous professional development."

According to the report 79.2% of probation orders were successfully completed, along with 88.7% of community service orders.

JPACS also deals with family law through its Jersey Family Court Advisory Service (JFCAS).

It makes sure that anybody going through legal proceedings involving children can be given support and advice representing the best interests of the child.

In 2024 JFCAS worked with 116 cases and oversaw the creation of the Jersey Family Justice Council to oversee the reform of the island's family justice system.

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