Structured Deferred Sentence (SDS)
Last updated: 12th July 2024
Description:
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.
Contact information:
Further Information:
Groupwork programmes and referrals to local support services are promoted during the SDS period with an aim of long term community support being available for individuals.