Reducing Reoffending
A 12 week project delivered by IMO (Inspire Motivate Overcome) delivering in several cycles, the group based programme offers an opportunity for offenders to engage and improve their lifestyle, understand the issues that they face and how these are addressed, without returning to a life of crime.
The Commissioner visited one of the sessions, held at Howarth House in Blackburn which is an approved premises for those leaving prison who are deemed as ‘high risk’, and spoke to those taking part in the programme.
Clive Grunshaw told how this scheme is a great example of what his Reducing Reoffending Fund is designed for:
“It is really striking to hear the difference that this programme has already made for the first group to complete it and see for myself how engaged those who take part are in the process.
“Policing alone cannot prevent people reoffending and that’s why my reducing reoffending fund supports organisations like IMO to help integrate offenders back into society and not return into the criminal justice system.
“Tackling crime and reoffending are key priorities in my Police and Crime Plan and this type of work delivers value for money and plays a vital role into make Lancashire a safer place.”
He also talked to one ex-offender who has recently completed the IMO-delivered programme and heard how it played a key role in him turning his life around from being a prolific offender, to now living in his own house having moved on from committing crime.
Returning to the project to tell the Commissioner about his experiences, he said:
“The group was very beneficial working on team building, working together and even though I left Howarth House before completing the course I came back to finish it.”
Mohammed Sidat, Director of Operations at IMO said:
“It’s pleasing to see IMO has been able to help and change the lives of offenders and help them to integrate into the wider community.”
