PILOT schemes aimed at re-educating alcohol and drug offenders are to be revamped.
The Penalty Notice for Disorder (PND) schemes, giving offenders a chance to attend educational courses as an alternative to paying a fine, will change on September 1.
Currently, the scheme, run by Druglink, enables police officers to issue PNDs to people who are drunk and disorderly, in possession of cannabis, or offenders of criminal damage or public order where alcohol or substance misuse was a factor.
The schemes operate an opt-in system, meaning offenders choose to attend a course. However, under the changes, offenders will have to opt out.
It is hoped the change will improve attendance on the courses, which aim to reduce the risk of people re-offending.
The courses cost £40 and once it has been completed, the original £80 fine is cancelled.
Second-time offenders cannot access the scheme.
Reporter: mattw@iwcpmail.co.uk