There are eight Community Justice Authorities in Scotland, which commenced on 1st April 2007. The Lothian and Borders Community Justice Authority cover the five council areas of West Lothian, Scottish Borders, City of Edinburgh, Mid Lothian and East Lothian.

The purpose of the Community Justice Authority is to:

• reduce the level of re-offending amongst offenders
• ensure that each of the agencies involved in criminal justice work co-ordinate their activities and ensure that all possible resources are available for the successful rehabilitation of offenders
• ensure that the activities of criminal justice agencies are focused upon increased community safety and use the most effective methods of working with offenders in order to change their behaviour
• ensure that services are delivered to a high standard, are based upon best practice and have methods of ensuring management of quality
• ensure that services are redesigned and prioritised around offender groups which are:



1. Less serious/first time offenders
2. Offenders with mental health problems
3. Offenders with substance misuse problems
4. Persistent offenders, including young offenders coming through the youth system
5. Prisoners needing resettlement and rehabilitation services violent, serious and sex offenders
6. Women offenders


• The Lothian and Borders Community Justice Authority wishes to ensure that the skills and resources of all of its partner agencies are designed, prioritised and are fit to meet the challenge of reducing re-offending and thereby making our community safer.