Community Justice Scotland appoints chief executive

A crime prevention expert who has led a project to steer people away from violence will spearhead a new drive to reduce reoffending across Scotland.

Karyn McCluskey, currently director of the Scottish Violence Reduction Unit, will take up the role of chief executive for Community Justice Scotland next month.

Justice Secretary Michael Matheson announced the appointment, as well as that of Jean Couper, who took up the post of chair of Community Justice Scotland at the start of September.

The new organisation will formally launch in April 2017. It will develop expertise and provide advice to ministers and local government leaders to strengthen how public services, third sector and other partners work together to prevent and reduce further offending.

Mr Matheson said: “Our approach to community justice in Scotland signals our strong belief in reviewing how things have been done in the past, and our determination to follow the evidence of what works in turning people away from crime.

“Our Programme for Government made clear that addressing inequalities is vital to a modern Scotland, and a key part is our vision for fairer, smarter justice. That means moving towards a society where those who have been through the justice system can, having paid their debt to society, be supported to contribute to their community, pursuing their aspirations, alongside families, friends and fellow citizens.

“From next April Community Justice Scotland will be tasked with identifying and promoting best practice from the more effective approaches across the country, including to robust community sentences that make a real difference. Jean and Karyn will bring a wealth of experience to help deliver a world-leading approach to tackling crime and re-offending that builds safer, stronger, inclusive communities.”

Ms McCluskey said: “It is a privilege to be asked to lead Community Justice Scotland, and to play a part in making Scotland a great place to live – one where everybody is able to make an active contribution to a successful society. I have great respect for the integrity, aspiration and professionalism of the staff, partners and communities across Scotland who I have worked with over the last 12 years in the prevention of offending. And I am excited about meeting the challenges ahead of us.”