Structured Deferred Sentence (SDS)

A structured deferred sentence is a flexible intervention providing structured social work support for individuals post-conviction but prior to sentencing. They can be used for people who have offended with underlying issues that might be addressed through social work and/or multi-agency intervention. At the end of the period of intervention, the court retains the discretion to pass sentence in any manner that would have been appropriate at the time of conviction, but with the benefit of information from the supervising officer in relation to the period of deferral.

Criminal.justice@eastdunbarton.gov.uk

0141 578 8320

SDS aims to provide a structured intervention for individuals upon conviction and prior to final sentencing. In East Dunbartonshire SDS, is low tariff, aimed at:

• Adults aged 18+ with lower-level substance use, experiencing poor mental health, and with a limited offending history who may pose a low/medium risk of re-offending and have a less entrenched pattern of offending.
• Are at a lower risk of custody
• Are not currently subject to a statutory order, and
• Are motivated to engage with a short, structured intervention