Do you have a couple of hours a week to help keep your community safe?

 

YHCOSA is a community response to sexual offending, working in partnership with criminal justice agencies. We aim to reduce the risk of future sexual offending by supporting and holding to account those who have committed not to re-offend. 

 

We live in a society where sexual abuse provokes powerful responses within communities. The successful rehabilitation and reintegration of a sex offender requires consideration of their own needs, the victim’s needs and those of the community, for the safety of everyone. Social isolation and emotional loneliness are key factors in increasing the risk of re-offending. Our carefully selected and trained volunteers provide core members with responsible opportunities for safe and constructive reintegration, acting as a support and safety mechanism for both the offender and the community.

We are looking for enthusiastic, non-judgemental, approachable individuals from all walks of life who can give a couple of hours a week to participate in a Circle of Support and Accountability.

Circles are a group of individuals who meet regularly with a Core Member (An individual who has previously committed sexual offences but who is motivated and committed to living an offence free life). Through engaging with the Core Member, Circle volunteers help to overcome isolation, loneliness and boredom and help to rebuild a positive, offence-free life. A key part of the role is holding the Core Member accountable for any behaviour which causes concern or alarm in order to help ensure the community is kept safe and there are "no more victims". Circle keep in regular contact with the Police and Probation service and other agencies involved in supporting the Core Member.

Circle volunteers will receive thorough and comprehensive training before undertaking the role. They will also have on going supervision and support.

 

This is a really exciting, challenging and rewarding role to become involved with.

We are currently seeking volunteers throughout South Yorkshire, Humberside, York, Scarborough, Northallerton and Leeds.

 

For more information, please contact Amii Hough, Volunteer Coordinator on amii.hough@yhcosa.org.uk, www.yhcosa.org.uk or on 01904 630911