As of today, Monday 17th May, people committing drink related offences in North Wales will now have the chance to take part in a new scheme.
North Wales Police have linked with ARCH Initiatives Cymru, a local substance misuse agency, in a bid to get to the root of the drinking culture.
People who are issued with a Penalty Notice for Disorder (PND) for drunk and disorderly or alcohol related public order will now have the opportunity to attend a 3 hour course.
The course will teach them about the strength and effects of alcohol, the effects alcohol has on our thinking and behaviour and identifying risk situations. If they attend the course they only pay £40 as opposed to an £80 fixed penalty notice.
Deputy Chief Constable Ian Shannon said: “We welcome the opportunity to work closer with ARCH Initiatives Cymru, in order to tackle alcohol related crime and disorder by providing opportunities for arrested persons to examine the cause of their offending and offer support to reduce re-offending – this is not a soft option, it is aimed at solving problems and reducing harm to the wider community.”
Steve Jones, Director of Services for ARCH Initiatives Cymru said “This scheme is designed to reduce the harmful effects that alcohol use can have on individuals through alcohol awareness and education sessions. ARCH Initiatives Cymru are delighted to support our colleagues in North Wales Police with this new initiative, giving us a real opportunity to tackle alcohol related anti social behaviour for the communities of North Wales and improving the quality of life for everyone”