What a Structured Deferred Sentence is
A Structured Deferred Sentence (SDS) is an intervention after a person has been found guilty of an offence, but before they are given final sentencing.
This is a sentencing option used by the courts for people assessed as low or medium risk of further offending and are not subject to another order.
Its focus is on providing structured support to address why the person’s needs may lead to offending behaviour.
A SDS involves delaying the final sentence to allow for a period of intervention and support with social work.
This period is usually for between 3 to 6 months and aims to:
- address the causes of the person’s offending behaviour
- prevent further involvement in the justice system
- reduce reoffending
- provide more effective rehabilitation.
At the end of this period, our social work service provides the court with a report on the person’s progress.
If the person has shown positive engagement and progress during the intervention, the court may reduce the severity of the sentence or disposal.
If the person has not shown progress during this time, the court will consider this in its final sentence. This could include imprisonment.
More information
If you want to find out more or discuss what services are available to you, contact our justice social work service by: