Unpaid Work

Unpaid Work is what used to be known as Community Service. It is one of the requirements that can be used as part of a Community order and involves offenders carrying out work for the community as punishment for the crimes they have committed.

The work is unpaid and includes graffiti removal, painting and decorating and workshop activities.

The work is tough and is punishment for the offenders, but is also an opportunity for them to learn new skills that could lead to future employment. Sustained employment is vital for offenders, as it is one of the key factors that prevent them from re-offending.

Unpaid Work is not suitable for high risk offenders. It is used as a sentence for low or medium risk offenders, convicted of crimes such as motoring offences, theft and public order offences. They are supervised by London Probation Project Supervisors, and work for at least six hours a day.

Communities in London can now also get involved in deciding what projects offenders should work on. Community Payback is a scheme that enables local residents to suggest areas in their community that would benefit from Unpaid Work. More information on Community Payback can be found on this site.