Passport

The Passport service in Sacro offers one-to-one support and guidance to ex-offenders who have recently been released from prison or a community service order. The service works closely with individuals to overcome barriers, and move on to access education, training or employment.

What does the service offer?

The Scottish prisoner population is rising and a significant percentage of these prisoners are re-offenders. Research indicates that individuals who achieve stable employment are three times less likely to commit further offences, giving them raised self esteem and focus in their lives.

Passport works with individuals to identify goals, action points needed to achieve these goals and the barriers that are preventing the individual from progressing. We work through problems together, ranging from anxiety and confidence issues to finally getting that application in the post. Passport gives contact information, signposts to relevant services where needed, advocates on behalf of the individual and helps with job seeking skills and college courses.

How does the service work?

Passport can meet with individuals before liberation to discuss their aspirations for the future and the barriers that they need to overcome. Contact and support will then continue after release. We can also take referrals in the community for up to six months after release. We carry out an assessment of needs and then agree upon an action plan together. The Passport worker will continue to work with an individual for up to six months where needed, and during this time the worker will network with other agencies or services and make referrals if necessary to ensure that all of the clients needs are addressed.

If the service user is ready, we will complete CVs, help with decisions about education and training, assist with application forms and interview skills and even accompany people to interviews if necessary. Finally, once in training or employment, we maintain contact to help maintain motivation and sustain the position.

Who is the service aimed at?

The service is aimed at people moving on from prison or from a community service order.

How is the service accessed?

Referrals can be made through the Links centre in Saughton for prisoners still in custody or from Sacro and other agencies in the community. We also take a large number of self-referrals. Referral forms can be emailed or posted if needed.