The Bridge

Since September 2008, FTC has been in partnership with Essex Probation and NACRO delivering an Alternative to Custody (A2C) programme called The Bridge.

The punishment element of a withdrawal of liberty does not always result in people changing their behaviour, especially those that receive very short sentences.

Research published by the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) shows that re-offending rates for community sentences fell between 2000 and 2005 whilst re-offending rates for short term prison sentences are at similar levels to 2000.

The Bridge programme, delivered alongside a 6 to 12 month Supervision Requirement, covers 15, 23 or 30 days of structured activities across a number of phases that includes Engagement, Following the rules, Consequences and Reintegration.

Throughout all the phases the participant is supported by a mentor who acts as a link between the participant and offender manager, and guide between the phases. This element is underpinned by classroom work around improving theor learning and own performance, and responsible citizenship.

The results so far have been encouraging with a completion rate of 94% against a target of 70%.

'I have worked with The Bridge since it started and the results I have seen with, in particular, two of my offenders have been excellent.  The Bridge are an excellent team, dedicated to the rehibilitation of offenders.  Their communication and individual skills with not only offenders but also in involving the offender manager has undoubtly contributed to their success and will continue to produce genuine great results'.

Offender Manager from The Essex Probation Trust.