Justice Programme, Bristol

Supporting young people to move away from the justice system

We support young people in Bristol who are involved with – or at risk of entering – the criminal justice system.

Many of the young people we work alongside are facing multiple challenges, including low confidence, limited opportunities, unstable circumstances, or negative past experiences of education or support services.

Without the right support, these challenges can increase the risk of continued involvement in the justice system.

Our role is to help young people build confidence, develop skills and take positive steps towards a different future.

How we support young people

We provide personalised one-to-one support alongside meaningful community volunteering opportunities.

Each young person works with a dedicated member of our team to:

  • build confidence and self-belief
  • develop communication and decision-making skills
  • explore goals and future aspirations
  • gain practical experience through volunteering
  • take steps towards education, training or employment

Our support is flexible and not time-limited, allowing us to work at a pace that is right for each individual.

Chance to Change (Deferred Prosecution)

We are a delivery partner on Avon & Somerset Police’s Chance to Change programme.

Chance to Change offers young adults (18–24) who have committed a low-level offence the opportunity to avoid prosecution by engaging in structured, supportive interventions.

Within this programme, we provide personalised support to help young men:

  • reflect on their choices and behaviours
  • build confidence and motivation
  • develop skills for everyday life and future employment
  • engage in positive, community-based activities

Our role is to support individuals to move forward in a way that reduces the likelihood of reoffending and increases their opportunities for the future.

Referrals to Chance to Change are made via Avon & Somerset Police only.

One-to-one support and community volunteering

Alongside structured programmes, we support young people with experience of the justice system to engage in volunteering within their communities.

Volunteering provides a positive, practical route to:

  • build confidence and routine
  • develop transferable skills
  • form new relationships and pro-social connections
  • experience being part of something positive and purposeful

For many young people, this becomes an important step towards education, training or employment – all of which are key factors in moving away from offending.

Targeted support for young women

We recognise that young women in contact with the justice system often face distinct challenges.

We incorporate tailored support into our one-to-one work, drawing on our For My Future model to help young women develop:

  • confidence and self-worth
  • decision-making skills
  • positive relationships
  • practical skills for employment and independence

This support is delivered flexibly as part of our wider programme.

Working in partnership

We work closely with partners across Bristol, including:

  • Avon & Somerset Police
  • probation and youth justice services
  • local authorities and community organisations

Together, we ensure young people receive the support they need to move forward.

Find out more

To find out more, please get in touch with Helen Kington, our Senior Project Manger at helen.kington@step-together.org.uk. To make a referral, click on the link below.