The South Lanarkshire Recovery Orientated Justice Service (ROJS) will continue to support individuals at risk of causing harm due to substance abuse after initially being created as a two-year pilot scheme.

The ROJS is instrumental to the work of the local Alcohol and Drug Problem Solving Court, which has been developed in partnership with the Hamilton Sheriff Court.

This is the first problem solving court in Scotland to address both drug and alcohol issues, with interventions delivered in South Lanarkshire by the ROJS team.

Independent analysis of the work of the Alcohol and Drug Problem Solving Court has provided evidence that indicates that it is yielding positive results in tackling offending and substance use. Since its establishment, the Alcohol and Drug Problem Solving Court has received national recognition, notably winning the prestigious Integrated Care Award at the 2024 Scottish Health Awards.

Chair of South Lanarkshire Council’s Social Work Resources Committee, Councillor Margaret Walker, said: “I am delighted that the Alcohol and Drug Problem Solving Court has been successful in helping people within South Lanarkshire who face drug and alcohol related issues.

“The continuation of our Recovery Orientated Justice Service reflects our recognition of the value of their work and our commitment to supporting individuals struggling with addiction as well as keeping our communities as a whole safe.”

Professor Soumen Sengupta, Chief Officer for Health and Social Care for South Lanarkshire added: “Drug and alcohol related deaths and crime are a blight on individuals, families, and communities across Scotland.

“We are committed to working with our partners so that, where possible, service users are held to account for their actions in a manner that reduces the risk of their reoffending and that addresses their addiction.

“My thanks to all the justice social work, SACRO and other third sector organisations, community addiction and recovery services, and Scottish Courts and Tribunal teams who have supported and developed this initiative to-date, and for their ongoing work on behalf of our local communities.”