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Offenders to benefit Moray groups


By SPP Reporter



Forres in Bloom are already benefitting from extra help.
Forres in Bloom are already benefitting from extra help.

The promotion is part of the government's move away from short-term prison sentences to community-based orders for offenders at the lower end of criminality.

Smart Justice Moray will take place at Elgin Town Hall on Thursday, September 13 and will see more than 20 organisations attend that can provide groups, third sector and micro-enterprises with help to benefit from the increase in community related sentencing.

One local group already benefitting from the extra help is Forres in Bloom.

Spokeswoman Sandra Maclennan said: "When financial reasons cause the greenhouse to be closed the community of Forres was adamant it wanted the floral displays to be continued for the benefit of residents and visitors, and to enhance the local economy.

"Although the group has many volunteers and extensive financial support from businesses and residents our success would be greatly reduced without the support of the community justice team and volunteers.

"We have welcomed the opportunity to work with those on placement helping to develop their skills and to provide a congenial and supportive workplace. Some have even returned to volunteer when their hours have been completed."

The Town Hall event will also see the launch of #YouChoose3, an opportunity for community groups, enterprising third sector organisations to bid for a share of £13,000 which is being made available by Moray Alcohol and Drugs Partnership to fund projects which focus on connection, prevention and recovery from drug and alcohol-related issues.

The support for greater use of community sentences to benefit local projects comes in the form of small grants and provision of an unpaid workforce.

From September 13, TsiMoray are inviting applications for between £500 and £1500 to support projects.

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