The National Lottery Community Fund has supported CASS+ in Newton Abbot Magistrate’s Court.
Thanks to The National Lottery Community Fund, our Newton Abbot site continues to thrive. As Shona, our new Assistant Co-ordinator, hits the ground running, advice and support at court grows.
Inside Newton Abbot Magistrates’ Court
Shona has huge experience as an Appropriate Adult. As a result, we are fostering closer relations with the local custody team.
Now one of our busiest sites
Newton Abbot is an extremely busy court. In fact, one week consisted of 33 cases coming through each day. Our team of staff and volunteers are full-on as they reach out to each person waiting to be processed. We work hard to put each person first, sensitively supporting them, ultimately helping to solve problems.
Combining empathy, compassion and knowledge
Many of our clients face complicated situations, sometimes compounded by learning needs and mental and physical health issues.
Court ushers send people our way
Court staff are always on the look-out for people who need advice and support.
As a result, Shona is now working alongside someone facing inter-related needs around accommodation, physical health, mental health, drug and alcohol use, and poverty.
Alongside their Support Workers, we are moving things forward with new PIP applications so that they can finally get a phone to access their emails for appointments with services. They have started to attend meetings and the court is impressed with their attitude.
We are determined that this person will get on the road to recovery and avoid going through the Justice System again.
Cost of living crisis driving people to our door
From July to September 2023, our Newton Abbot team worked one-to-one with 67 clients (45 male and 22 female). After Criminal Justice needs, it’s mainly accommodation, benefits, debt and money worries coming up. Fortunately, we can help with grants from amazing organisations like ACTS 435.
We are constantly co-ordinating with our partners and services, namely magistrates, solicitors, police, probation, judges, CPS, ushers, court cells, social services, other charities, and agencies.
Giving people another chance
Because we are free and independent of the system, we believe we can reduce the risk of re-offending and prevent crime.
The National Lottery Community Fund has supported CASS+ in Newton Abbot Magistrate’s Court.
Thanks to all National Lottery players, this work will continue to thrive.
If you know anyone who needs help at court, whether that be Magistrates’ or Family, please contact your local CASS+ office.
