Alcohol counselling scheme proves a hit

From the Salisbury Journal, first published Wednesday 21st Sep 2005.

AN alcohol counselling system is resulting in fewer people reappearing before Salisbury courts on drink-related offences, according to figures released this week.

Before the alcohol referral programme for offenders and victims came into operation three months ago, 40 per cent of those arrested for offences involving drink had re-offended within a year.

But since the counselling scheme has been up and running, only seven per cent of those attending the programme in south Wiltshire and Kennet have been re-arrested.

Under the scheme, those charged with any alcohol-related offence are encouraged to seek counselling as part of their bail conditions.

If they agree, they are referred to the Salisbury Alcohol & Drug Advisory Service. And if they are eventually found guilty of an offence, their participation in the programme is taken into account by the court, which may reduce their fine or other sentence.

In addition, any offenders issued with a fixed penalty ticket (usually £80), have this cancelled if they attend both of the programme's one-hour treatment sessions.

The alcohol referral programme has been funded through the community safety partnerships of both South Wiltshire and Kennet in an attempt to break the cycle of alcohol abuse that leads to crime.

A spokesman said that any reduction in re-offending was an important factor in improving the area's quality of life. "This is highlighted by the fact that a third of all arrests in the area (330 out of 1098) are alcohol-related," he said.

Kate Phipps, the community safety partnership development manager at Salisbury police station, said: "It is important to provide intervention and education as well as enforcement in our work against crime. This scheme offers those involved every opportunity to look at their lifestyle and seek help."

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