SLC/SW/23/033 Alcohol and Drug Problem Solving Court Peer Mentor(s)

Tender description

South Lanarkshire Council are looking to notify the market of a potential future contract opportunity to deliver an Alcohol and Drug Problem Solving Court Peer Mentor(s) service. Anticipated timeframe for ‘Go Live’ is 01 September 2023. Go Live Date will be dependent on the Procurement Route chosen - Open Procurement may take longer. In partnership with Hamilton Sheriff Court, South Lanarkshire Justice Social Work (JSW) will support a dedicated 2-year test of change for South Lanarkshire Alcohol and Drug Problem Solving Court (SLADPSC). The SLADPSC could have a potential to change the direction of national standards set for the delivery of Community Payback Orders across Scotland. Through taking a public health approach and inclusion of service user’s and family’s perspective the Council has an opportunity to change the mind-set of broader workforce / communities and making informed changes to how we support those in conflict with the law. The Council’s long-term aim is to exit people out of the justice system where offending relates to substance use and reduce the number of people coming into contact with justice services. The Council anticipate between 60 to 80 people going through the court each year. These numbers are estimated based on the Council’s current core business in this area of work as this option will only be available to individuals appearing at Hamilton Sheriff Court. It is envisaged this court will operate fortnightly with dedicated Sheriffs. To be considered the person must meet the following criteria: - between 21-55 years old - previously been subject to a Community Payback Order / custody / diversion from prosecution or at risk of custody - have a drug use dependency or regular use that contributes to offending (this can include alcohol but not solely) - motivated to engage with a structured deferred sentence for between 6-9 months and undertake an appropriate treatment plan (may or may not be medically assisted) Sheriffs will be able to request a Criminal Justice Social Work Report which will identify an appropriate treatment and support plan. Once accepted into the SLADPSC, participants will receive support from their JSW and CAReS (Community Addictions and Recovery Service) nursing staff commensurate with their needs. JSW will provide a welfare approach which will include housing, health and offending behaviour supports. The Council expects this will be met with 3.5 mentors in place, three posts will be full time (35 hours) and one post will be part time (17.5 hours). CAReS nursing staff would participate in the delivery of on-going assessments, care planning, treatment and support of people with alcohol and drug issues to promote health, independence and recovery.