| Through the existing fixed penalty process, it will be possible to identify offenders and, through a programme developed and run by Fife Alcohol Support Services, offer them the opportunity to learn more about the dangers and consequences of alcohol misuse.
Where an offence has been committed which results in a fixed Ł40 penalty for anti social behaviour, and it appears that alcohol has been a factor, the offender will be given the chance to take part in the scheme.
The officer will provide the offender with a leaflet detailing the initiative and explain that if they participate, the fine will be waived. Once the offender attends and completes a session, FASS will inform the police.
The project aims to help reduce a binge drinker’s chance of becoming a future victim or offender in the criminal justice system. Benefits include a lower risk of becoming a victim or offender, improving health, and reducing binge drinking through awareness.
The pilot scheme, unveiled today by Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill, Assistant Chief Constable Andrew Barker and other partners, will operate within the Kirkcaldy area for six months.
Mr MacAskill said, “Since they were rolled out during 2007, Fixed Penalty Notices have proved a valuable tool in helping police tackle low-level anti social behaviour and a means of delivering swift justice.
“However, enforcement alone will not solve the problems which fuel lawlessness in our communities, and that is why this Government has put early intervention, education and support at the centre of our approach.
“Folk who commit low-level anti social behaviour need to face the consequences but also have to realise the cost of their behaviour.
“Educating them about the consequences for them and the effects on them and those around them is equally important.
Jim Bett, of FASS, said, “It is far easier to deal with alcohol-related problems at an early stage, before drinking behaviour becomes entrenched within a person’s self image or self esteem or ability to relate to friends and family.
“We also realised education alone is not enough to elicit change, and therefore focused on a more participative approach, with elements of education but, most importantly, an opportunity for people to create their own options for change.”
Assistant Chief Constable Barker said, “In 2007/08, anti social behaviour offences accounted for 50% of all recorded crimes and related to 34% of all calls to the police.
“In 2008, we issued 1897 anti social behaviour-related fixed penalty notices, and the main contributory factor to these types of offences is the misuse and consumption of alcohol.
“Anti social behaviour and low-level crimes contribute to a wider fear of crime within our communities.
“This project is a first in Scotland, and offers Fife Constabulary the opportunity once again to be involved in a programme that seeks to address the root cause of alcohol abuse.”
Kirkcaldy was chosen to pilot the scheme as it is one of eight areas selected by the Scottish Government to try out new ways of reducing the gaps in health and well-being outcomes that have persisted for decades.
In Kirkcaldy’s case, this aims to bring together community safety and health and well-being activity, particularly in relation to alcohol use under the Equally Well banner.
A PhD student from St Andrews University will evaluate the project during and at the completion of the pilot period, and if it proves to be successful, it may be extended to other areas in Fife. |
