In the financial year 2007-2008 the number of Community Work sentences was 35,577: an increase of 4,370 compared to the previous year.
The total annual throughput was higher as well; 55,415 in 2007-2008 against 48,970 in the previous financial year.
Community Work has increased at the same time as changes have been made to sentencing options in the community. Judges can now sentence offenders to Home Detention or two other new community sentences: Community Detention (Electronically Monitored Curfew) and Intensive Supervision. These sentences can also be combined with Community Work.
Last years’ statistics show that we must continue work with Māori offenders. Nearly half (45 per cent) of those receiving new community-based sentences were Māori. To work effectively with Māori offenders, we are forming strong partnerships with agencies, hapū, iwi and Māori community groups who work with sentenced offenders.
We continue to need to expand the opportunities and projects whereby offenders provide reparation to the community. We are continuing to work with the community and other agencies in doing this. You will find an example of this in this issue's story about ONTRACK, the Auckland Graffiti Free Project and the Waitakere City Council joining forces in a unique Community Work project.
If you know of other projects that may be eligible for Community Work assistance, please share your thoughts with us at your nearest CPPS centre.
Katrina Casey
General Manager
Community Probation & Psychological Services
Got a story for Community Works or want to request the print edition?
Email commdesk@corrections.govt.nz or phone (04) 460 3365.
Community Works is published quarterly by the Department of Corrections. Contact details for Community Probation & Psychological Services can be found here or by looking under C for Corrections in the Government listings of the Telecom White Pages.
ISSN 1178-1327