How is the SNP investing in community justice?

Protecting victims and the public from further harm is an absolute priority for the SNP as the Scottish Government.

This remains consistent with the aims for community justice – the evidence shows that community‑based interventions and sentences can be more effective in reducing reoffending and assisting with rehabilitation than short-term custodial sentences, while protecting the public and robustly managing risk.

The Scottish Government firmly believes that while prison will continue to be the right option for some, in many circumstances, keeping individuals out of custody is the best way to prevent further offending, reduce victimisation, and keep communities safe.

The 2026/27 Scottish Budget is investing £102.3 million in community justice, with an additional £25 million over two years already committed to strengthen alternatives to custody.