A NEW service is being launched in Bradford this month aimed at reducing the reoffending rates among vulnerable people.

The new service, called the Liaison and Diversion Service, will identify, assess and refer people who suffer from mental health problems, substance misuse, social vulnerabilities or have a learning disability.

It will intercept them when they first come into contact with the youth and adult criminal justice systems to try and reduce reoffending rates.

The scheme is funded by NHS England, and is being brought to Bradford after already proving successful in Leeds and Wakefield.

In 2016, the Liaison and Diversion Service won the prestigious Howard League for Penal Reform Award for the nest liaison and diversion service.

The service brings together different professions into one team, including mental health nurses, police officers and support workers.

It will be based out of West Yorkshire Police’s Trafalgar House police station in Nelson Street and delivered by a partnership of West Yorkshire Police, Bradford Council’s youth offending team, Wakefield City Council, mental health charity Touchstone, women’s rehabilitation charity Together Women, and drugs charity Bridge.

Inspector Kevin Taylor, partnerships inspector at Bradford District Police, said: “We are hoping this will reduce the number of people who are returning time and again to the criminal justice system because they are unable to access the right support.

“By improving access to healthcare and support services for vulnerable people at an early stage we hope to reduce the need for crisis interventions later on.”

The team will work across Bradford’s police stations and at Bradford and Keighley Magistrates Court.

Clint Hepworth, Liaison and Diversion Service manager, added: “Our multi-agency team of diverse staff brings together a vast wealth of experience and knowledge.

“We will encourage people to get the help they need to turn their lives around.

“This will include offering assistance to help people attend appointments and ensuring that they are fully engaged with all the right agencies.”

For more information about the service, call 01924 304155, or email chepworth@wakefield.gov.uk