Alcohol Awareness Scheme - Wiltshire

Launched in 2005, an independent review has shown it has been successful in reducing the number of re-offenders.

The Alcohol Arrest Referral Programme recognises about half of the crimes committed are alcohol-related and many people will re-offend within 12 months. Each offender is offered two sessions which help them understand the impact and consequences of their drinking. The scheme will particularly target men aged between 17 and 25 years of age.

A Wiltshire Police spokesman said the programme was launched in 2005 and an independent review had shown it had been successful in reducing the number of re-offenders.

"We welcome the programme in north and west Wiltshire," he said. "Our aim is to reduce alcohol-related crime and antisocial behaviour, and also re-offending, in order to make the streets of Wiltshire a safer place."