The national service aims to help people leaving prison reintegrate with their community and rebuild relationships, through mentoring, one-to-one support and guidance on accessing health care, housing and benefits.

Replacing the two existing services ‘Shine’ and ‘New Routes’ for men and women serving sentences of four years or less, the national throughcare service will provide support across Scotland, including in rural and island communities. Women released on remand already receive support and the new national service will also extend this to men.

Launched in April this year, the service is backed by £5.3 million for the next three years and will be delivered by a partnership of third sector organisations led by Sacro, a community justice organisation, with oversight by Community Justice Scotland.

Justice Secretary Angela Constance said: “It is critical that those serving short sentences and periods of remand are supported when released to make a safe transition back into the community. This reduces the risk of reoffending, resulting in less crime, fewer victims and safer communities.  

“This new approach, backed by £5.3 million in funding, will allow more people to be supported and for longer, including now those leaving periods of remand, many of whom are not eligible for support at present.

“It will also ensure consistent support can be provided across Scotland, including in rural and island communities and create greater efficiencies - with delivery partners able to work collaboratively to share resources, staff time and facilities.”

Annie Mauger-Thompson, chief executive of Sacro, said: “What makes this initiative so powerful is how it has been shaped through collaboration and listening to those with lived experience. We have worked closely with staff, stakeholders, and community partners, to design a service that meets real needs, provides trauma-informed support, and fosters sustainable futures for individuals and communities.”