More than 70% of offenders supervised by the Probation Board for Northern Ireland did not reoffend within one year after receiving community service orders. The figures cover sentences issued in 2022/23.

Young offenders in Poleglass, west Belfast, cleaned alleyways as part of their community orders for assault or drug offences. Probation Board supervisor Glen Devine-Caldwell oversaw the work.

Offenders convicted of theft, burglary, drug offences or domestic violence can receive community orders requiring 40 to 240 hours of unpaid work. Tasks include graffiti removal, grass cutting, charity shop work, conservation projects, painting and decorating.

Aideen McLaughlin, assistant director of the Probation Board, stated that unpaid work serves as a step toward paid employment. She noted that stable accommodation, employment and addressing mental health or addiction issues help prevent reoffending.

Sinn Féin councillor Caoimhín McCann described the schemes as an opportunity for offenders to contribute to west Belfast. Probation services officer Sinead Curtis said the orders build routines, teach skills and foster responsibility.

Victims can register with the Probation Victim Information Scheme to influence the type of work offenders perform or request they avoid certain areas. Offenders complete about 100,000 hours of unpaid work each year. The Probation Board partners with churches, sports groups and men's sheds.