MP TAKES A CLOSE-UP VIEW OF STOCKPORT PROBATION

Andrew Stunell MP has visited Stockport probation to learn more about the work being done to manage offenders in the community.

The Liberal Democrat MP met with staff to discuss how Greater Manchester Probation Trust (GMPT) is working to hold criminals to account for their actions, while also striving to support their rehabilitation.

Stockport probation, which employs 41 people, is currently the best performing district in Greater Manchester.

The office manages in the region of 1,800 sentences where the offenders are either subject to community orders or on licence from prison.

Mr Stunell, who represents Hazel Grove constituency, said: "It was very interesting to see the range and scope of the activity that goes on in Stockport probation.

"I am sure local residents would be reassured to see the work and effort being put into ensuring offenders pay their dues to society. I'm impressed by what I saw."

Mohammed Farooq, head of Stockport probation was "delighted" that Mr Stunell took the time to visit the office.

He added: "I am proud that the hard work of my staff, in conjunction with partner agencies, has resulted in reduced re-offending across the borough."

In 2012-13, a total of 80 per cent of offenders supervised by the district successfully completed their court orders in Stockport. Those who did not were swiftly returned to court and often sent to prison for their failure to comply.

Just under 60 per cent of offenders were in employment at the end of their order whilst 91 per cent had suitable accommodation. Employment and accommodation are crucial to addressing causes of offending.

Mohammed added: "Community sentences are tough. They punish offenders for the crimes they have committed, but we also focus on helping offenders to move away from crime.

"We do that by working on the reasons why they turned to offending in the first place. The evidence consistently shows that by getting a stake in society, most people are able to once again become law-abiding citizens in their own communities. This produces less crime and makes for a safer society.

"We work with a range of partner agencies - such as the police, housing associations and drug treatment services - to deal with the issues that underpin offending behaviour. Our success matters as it's key to preventing crime in Stockport."