Supervised Bail Service

Supervised Bail is a direct alternative to being remanded in custody and is designed to reduce the risk of offending while on bail.

What does the service offer?

Sacro’s Supervised Bail Services work to prevent unnecessary custodial remands and re-offending on bail by providing supervision, monitoring and support (including tagging in some areas). These services provide courts with an effective alternative to remand, allowing the accused to remain in the community while undertaking offending behaviour work, and having access to other services at an early stage.

How does the service work?

If Supervised Bail is granted, the accused will sign a Bail Supervision agreement and must conform to the conditions therein until they are removed by the Sheriff, usually following trial.

Bail conditions must be strictly adhered to and will include regular appointments with Sacro workers, normally three times per week.

Who is the service aimed at?

The service is available to the Court as an alternative to custody for accused persons.

How is the service accessed?

The court social worker will interview the person on remand and assess their suitability for the service.

In Edinburgh and Midlothian, a “Fast-Track” referral and assessment system is in operation whereby the court social worker will interview the person on the day of their first court appearance following arrest. Following consultation with Sacro staff, the person may then be assessed by a Sacro worker as to their suitability for the Service.

Referrals to the scheme can be made by Sheriffs, Procurators Fiscal, defence agents and social workers.

The Court makes the final decision as to whether Supervised Bail will be granted.