The Winter Jacket project is a collaboration with local schools that involves laundered and redistributed jackets donated to children and families who need them most. This initiative, led by the council’s Justice Unpaid Work Service, exemplifies the community-focused ethos of South Lanarkshire Social Work Justice Services.

This was just one of the initiatives highlighted during a recent visit to Blantyre, where the Social Work Justice Services welcomed esteemed guests to showcase examples of best practice, including enhancing early intervention and alternatives to custody, ensuring those given community sentences are supervised and supported, and enabling rehabilitation.

The visit included an overview of the innovative Whole System Approach service for 16-18 year olds, the leading-edge collaboration with Hamilton Sheriff Court to establish a dedicated Alcohol and Drug Problems Solving court, the award-winning Recovery Oriented Justice Service, and a range of supports provided by the local Unpaid Work Service.

Councillor Fagan said: “South Lanarkshire is leading the way in demonstrating how justice services can combine care and accountability to improve outcomes for individuals and communities.

“From early intervention to the essential work of the Unpaid Work Service, the dedication and professionalism of our staff are making a lasting difference. This visit reinforced the vital role of justice services in promoting rehabilitation, reducing reoffending, and building stronger, safer communities.”

Cabinet Secretary for Justice and Home Affairs, Angela Constance said: “The Winter Jacket Project is an excellent example of improving lives; helping those in need stay warm while helping to reduce reoffending through unpaid work and supporting effective rehabilitation in the community.

 “Community justice makes a tangible difference to individuals lives while providing support and compassionate rehabilitation. We know that community sentences can be more effective in reducing reoffending and assisting with rehabilitation than short-term custodial sentences, leading to fewer victims and safer communities.”

On the success of the Winter Jacket project, Professor Sengupta added: “I am delighted once again at the generosity of people and schools from across South Lanarkshire who have gone out of their way to contribute to our campaign.

“A huge thank you to everyone involved – that kindness and willingness to help others is another example of South Lanarkshire at its best.”