I WONDER how many of us have ever heard of CASS+? (Community Advice and Support Services).

I know I hadn’t until recently, and that was only by chance when I met Henri Treece, the coordinator for Newton Abbot, at the opening of the town’s police station front desk, writes Police Advocate, Cllr Mike Joyce.

What is this organisation and where do they operate?. Firstly, this is a charity based inside the courts in Plymouth, Truro, Bodmin and Newton Abbot, supporting about 150 people in need of a helping hand as they go through the Justice System & into life beyond.

Our system does not always address the root causes of crime. Anyone can end up alone at court feeling powerless, trapped and terrified. CASS+ is independent and perfectly-placed inside the courts. They listen and give free practical advice; emotional support; and ongoing help.

They reduce the risk of re-offending by working with their many partners across Devon and Cornwall to find solutions to the complicated situations people face, especially when it comes to: spiralling financial hardship and debt; homelessness and accommodation; general wellbeing; domestic abuse; substance use; mental health, including depression and anxiety; literacy issues; general court support and employment, education and training.

They are there to support vulnerable people, victims of crime and their families; in fact people from every walk of life.

Do they have anything to do with the court system? The answer that is that they are nothing to do with the court system or the judiciary - they are totally independent and free, but are there to assist anyone coming through the courts who needs help in their hour of need.

Since 2005, they have reduced demand on the Justice System and other services by working alongside magistrates, solicitors, probation, police, District Judges, CPS, ushers, court cells, social services, statutory and voluntary community sector, charities and agencies across Devon and Cornwall to guide people through the system towards a more positive future. They are frequently called upon by officers of the court to assist and by those representing clients if the need arises.

Taking a quick gander at the leaflet, I find that it says they work with low level first-time and repeat offenders, as well as victims of crime in families based within magistrates courts, problem-solving, signposting and helping people navigate the court process through an extremely stressful time.

The leaflet goes on to say that the majority cases they see includes at least one of these areas: benefits, court-related support, debt and financial worries, domestic abuse, employment and education, family matters, health and mental health, housing and homelessness, and substance misuse. Although this is a long list, it is by no means exhaustive and the support they give provides third-party insight into the obscure nature of courts and the judicial system.

Except for a few paid members of staff, this charity is volunteer-led. These incredible volunteers provide the backbone to the service. 

They are all trained and, as a result of their rewarding experiences, many go on to successful careers in the justice system and fulfil their passion to guide people towards more stable lives, resulting in stronger communities.

This dynamic team is driven by the belief that with the right emotional and practical support and life-changing opportunities, anyone can reach their potential. The Centre for Justice Innovation recently commissioned an evaluation from Crest Advisory.

This report highlights many long-term outcomes like: reduced re-offending; greater compliance with sentences and court orders; improved client health and wellbeing; access to ongoing support; and decreased burden to the justice system.

When it comes to the people who come through their door, the report found that for every £1 spent by CASS+, there was a public value benefit of £3.36. Plus, 21 of the 27 clients interviewed said that as a result of this support, their mental health had improved along with their outlook on life and that they were better able to deal with problems in the longer term.

This is how this a small band provides a unique service that’s little known outside the court system, ensuring each person gets the right tailored support, helping them through the process by providing a quiet space; explaining what’s going on; deciphering court language; sitting by their side inside courtrooms; coordinating their needs; and organising referrals to meet their welfare or social needs.