A new website has been launched by the charity Next Chapter Scotland to help people who’ve been in touch with the justice system get their lives back on track.

The charity estimates one in three men and one in 10 women in Scotland have a criminal record and many face stigma and discrimination for many years after they’ve committed an offence.

The new website aims to support people who have been involved with the criminal justice system to overcome stigma and discrimination and provide them with information they need to help break the cycle of re-offending and make a positive contribution to their communities. The website has been developed thanks to funding from The National Lottery Community Fund.

Next Chapter Scotland Trustee, Kalpana Ratnam-Roarty, said: “Whether it relates to accessing work, understanding the criminal justice system, money matters, health, housing, family and society, or generally living life, the list of challenges that people can face is lengthy and can affect their lives for many years.”

“We’re supporting people who have served their sentences and repaid the harm they’ve caused to others but deserve a second chance to contribute positively to society. Supporting people away from reoffending means less crime and fewer future victims.”

“Next Chapter Scotland believes people shouldn’t be judged for their worst choices but, instead should be seen as they are today.“We have heard from people who have been involved with the criminal justice system about how they have been treated – sometimes many years after they have committed a crime.”

To visit the new website, please click here (linked for your convenience).