Offenders guilty of anti-social behavior will be made to clean up rubbish on beaches as part of a community payback scheme. The initiative, ordered by ministers, aims to make yobs "give back to society" by picking up wet wipes and bottles from Britain's blighted coastlines.
Visible Justice
Under the scheme, thugs given unpaid work orders will be sent out in high-vis jackets emblazoned with "Community Payback" so residents can see justice being done. Over a period of ten days this month, the offenders will put in over a thousand hours of work as part of the Great British Beach Clean.
Teaming Up for a Cleaner Coastline
The Probation Service has joined forces with the Marine Conservation Society to put offenders to work. Each year, more than 50,000 unpaid work requirements are handed out by courts for criminals guilty of theft, damage, and drunken disorder.
A Strong Message
"The Government is coming down hard on the anti-social behavior which makes other people's lives a misery," said Prisons Minister Damian Hinds. "We want offenders visibly atoning for their crimes in a way which benefits the law-abiding majority and this work also helps protect our beautiful coastline."
Investing in Community Payback
The government has committed £93 million to community payback schemes, which includes giving locals a greater say over punishments.
Making a Difference
"We're pleased to see offenders making a difference to their communities and environment by contributing to our work," said Jennifer Mitchell, Director of Engagement and Communications at the Marine Conservation Society. "Clearing our beaches of litter is not only a great way to give back to society, it also helps us tackle ocean pollution by gathering vital data."
