Scottish Advisory Panel on Offender Rehabilitation (SAPOR): accredited programmes

The Scottish Advisory Panel on Offender Rehabilitation has developed a range of programmes dedicated to offender rehabilitation within Scotland.

These accredited programmes have been instrumental in addressing the challenge of reducing reoffending rates and fostering desistance among individuals with a history of offending.

The programmes are part of a concerted effort by professionals, organisations and the justice system to use evidence-informed practices and standards to create positive change.

Short Term Intervention Programme 

The Short-Term Intervention Programme (STIP), developed by the Scottish Prison Service (SPS) is a targeted initiative designed to address the needs of short-term prisoners.

This programme encompasses problem-solving, motivation, goal setting, and addresses issues related to offending behaviour and substance misuse.

The Caledonian System

The Caledonian System is a comprehensive approach aimed at addressing instances of domestic abuse perpetrated by men against their female partners or former partners.

Its primary objective is to reduce reoffending among men convicted of domestic abuse-related offences and, in doing so, enhance the wellbeing of women, children, and the men involved.

The Caledonian System is composed of three key components. These are the Men's Service, the Women's Service and the Children's Service. 

The Men's Service

This segment involves a multi-year programme, spanning at least two years, encompassing preparatory and motivational sessions, a series of twenty-six groupwork sessions, and ongoing maintenance sessions.

Notably, during the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, a one-to-one version of the Men's Service was developed and has also received accreditation.

The Women's Service

Focusing on the safety and support of women who are current or former partners, this component provides safety planning, essential information, advice, and emotional support

The Children's Service

Dedicated to addressing the needs and safeguarding the rights of children whose parents are engaged with the Caledonian System, ensuring their well-being is a central priority.

The Ultimate Self Programme

The Ultimate Self Programme, developed by the Scottish Prison Service, is an offender rehabilitation initiative that caters to the specific responsivity needs of women in custody.

This programme is designed to help participants comprehend the nature of their offending behaviour and to equip them with strategies to reduce the risk of reoffending.