Edinburgh residents’ views on community payback orders sought

Community payback orders (CPO) can be imposed on people who have committed offences by the courts as an alternative to a short term prison sentence, and can last between six months and three years. They give those involved the chance to address their behaviour and also to repay communities by carrying out unpaid work.

The public consultation has been launched by the City of Edinburgh Council, which administers the scheme in the city. Views are being sought on people who have committed offences working in communities and the effectiveness of community payback as a way to reduce re-offending.

Examples of unpaid work carried out by the scheme include: repairing and reinstating headstones in local cemeteries; developing and maintaining children’s play areas; recycling projects including books, bicycles and furniture.

As well as using the questionnaire to comment on the community payback scheme, participants can also recommend groups, residents, organisations or projects that may benefit from unpaid work through the online suggestion form.

Councillor Amy McNeese-Mechan said: “We’re really keen to hear what people think about community payback orders, and the work carried out by the people subject to them.

“One of the aims of the consultation is also to identify more opportunities in Edinburgh for unpaid community work to be carried out. This work could include repainting community centres, community clear ups or supporting charity shops with deliveries. They are an excellent way for organisations such as charities to get practical help, and they give offenders the chance to repay communities for their offences.”

The consultation will run until 31 August.