Its only a second chance if you actually stand a chance Our Charity Insurance team explain how the charity sector can support ex-offenders. The poet Alexander Pope once said that “To err is human”. Or to put it more simply: we all make mistakes. It is part of the human condition to make mistakes from time to time, and is one of the many ways in which we learn and develop. Some of us however make graver mistakes than others, and the cold reality is that it’s not difficult to end up on the wrong side of the law if circumstances mount up against us. However it could be fair to say that western societies often don’t do as much as we could to help and support those ex-offenders who are trying to turn their lives around. On average around 42% of juvenile offenders in the UK will re-offend within 12 months of their release, which could be interpreted as meaning that almost half of convicted juveniles are actually career criminals in the making. Or could it mean that society actually puts up barrier after barrier to prevent reintegration into society? We all know that finding employment can be a challenge for ex- offenders. It can be difficult for those looking to make a fresh start to find accommodation, many ex-offenders don’t have family that they can return to, and landlords are reluctant to take them on as tenants. But the problems don’t just stop there. Financial support is negligent. And the local community can be less than welcoming. In very many ways reintegration is a constant uphill battle, so is it any wonder that many ex-offenders succumb to the temptation of drugs, or the ease of slipping back into the criminal lifestyle they know? Media reports all say that the UK criminal justice system is at financial breaking point, our prisons are overcrowded and living conditions can be poor. But investing time into helping ex-offenders would help relieve the strain, reduce crime rates, help improve local communities and most importantly help people become a valuable member of our society.
Protection Support and representation for those in greatest need. Partnership Services offer local solutions through working closely with their communities. Communities have a part to play in preventing, detecting and reporting neglect and abuse. So, once you have a solid safeguarding policy, trained your staff and put reporting procedures in place what should you consider next? According to Shirley, under insurance is a big issue in the third sector and particularly for Abuse Insurance Cover. Insurance against the impact of Abuse Cover can provide protection against the costs resulting from legal defence fees and compensation payments in the event of an abuse allegation or claim of negligence. However, like all polices there can be restrictions and conditions such as ensuring that you have a robust safeguarding policy in place and that it is reviewed annually. Shirley’s advice is to consult with a specialist insurance and risk management adviser if you are looking to find protection for your organisation. Scrutton Bland have over a decade in providing leading cover for charities and organisations operating in the third sector. To find out more contact our specialist third sector team by calling 0330 058 6559 or emailing charityinsurance@scruttonbland.co.uk Accountability Accountability and transparency in delivering safeguarding.
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