Structured Deferred Sentence

Interventions suitable for

Individuals where a shorter period (three or six months) of structured support may either be sufficient to address their risk and needs or may be a testing period to demonstrate suitability for a Community Payback Order (in higher tariff cases).

Programme title and provider

Structured Deferred Sentence (SDS)

Details of all Specific national or local scheme/intervention(s) available

Dundee began offering Structured Deferred Sentences as a possible disposal in May 2021. Community Justice staff will identify areas that may be helpfully addressed during the Criminal Justice Social Work Reports writing stage, working alongside the individual to do so. Community Justice staff will implement the Structured Deferred Sentence, but they may use the period to support the individual to attend appointments assessed as necessary. Referral may also be made to the health staff employed by Dundee CJS.

Possible Outcomes

The scheme is divided into two broad groups. Lower tariff cases where a period of structured support during deferment may be sufficient, with admonishment following successful completion and higher tariff cases where compliance with previous Orders has been problematic. In these cases the Structured Deferred Sentence may be viewed as a testing period prior to a Community Payback Order.

Process for Assessment and/or inclusion in scheme/intervention

Will be assessed at Criminal Justice Social Work Report stage.