A new county-wide service to reduce problem substance use and re-offending has been commissioned by Warwickshire Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Seccombe.
National drug and alcohol specialist support provider Cranstoun has been awarded the contract to deliver drug and alcohol support to those over the age of 18 who are in contact with the criminal justice system in Warwickshire. The contract award is for an initial period of three years from 1 April 2024.
It’s the latest example of the Commissioner’s commitment towards early intervention and sustained recovery among people struggling with substance misuse.
Warwickshire Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Seccombe said:
“Drugs and alcohol are identified as two of the key drivers of crime and disorder, with strong links between substance use and an increased likelihood of committing a range of offences, from acquisitive crime to violent crime and re-offending.
“I’m pleased to be able to confirm the new arrangements for this commissioned service, which follows a competitive tendering process. I’m looking forward to working with Cranstoun, who have more than 50 years of experience in supporting people to rebuild their lives and empower positive change.
“Ultimately, these services are vital to helping break the cycle of re-offending that people can find themselves spiralling into. I remain committed to funding a range of services that support people to overcome their dependencies, reduce their offending behaviours and ultimately live healthy and crime-free lives.”
Darren Nicholas, Assistant Director for Criminal Justice Services at Cranstoun said:
“We know how effective making interventions in police custody are to supporting people into treatment and to finding the right support for them.
“We’re pleased to be expanding our work with the Warwickshire PCC and Police as we work together with partners across the county to give people options and opportunities when they leave police custody to get access further alcohol and drug services and opportunities to live safer lives.”
Cranstoun have worked with the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner and former service provider Change, Grow, Live to ensure a smooth handover and continuity of service. Change, Grow, Live will continue to deliver separate community drug and alcohol support services across Warwickshire.
Meanwhile, services to deliver drug and alcohol interventions to young people across Warwickshire will provided by health and wellbeing charity Compass, whose existing contract has been renewed by the OPCC to at least 2027.
Dedicated workers will be providing services to young people already in the criminal justice system. Educational and outreach work will also continue to raise young people’s awareness more generally of the consequences of substance misuse.
