Greater Manchester Probation Trust

In the Community

Community sentences aim to punish, change, control and help offenders according to their needs.

Sentences can include intensive punishment, tight restrictions on freedom, close focus on rehabilitation and making amends to the community.

Community sentences are not a soft option. Offenders punished with a community sentence do not walk free from court, but face up to three years of restrictions on their liberty.

For many offenders, being made to face up to the consequences of their crime and the root causes of their offending behaviour are the toughest and most painful parts of their punishment. They are also the most essential.