Fife community service snow-clearers praised
Jan 21, 2010
from Paul Reoch's article in thecourier.co.uk:
Two Fife pensioners yesterday praised the work of community service workers who cleared snow and ice from their pavements after one elderly lady had been virtually housebound for three weeks owing to the Arctic conditions.
Ann McCauley (83) and Jean Mellon (76) were two residents at Balfour Court sheltered housing complex in Dunfermline who benefited from the work by offenders on community service, which was also praised by justice secretary Kenny MacAskill.
The decision to use the offenders was the brainchild of Fife Council’s social work department and Mr MacAskill, yesterday visiting the area, said employing the offenders was a good use of the taxpayers’ money.
....Mrs McCauley explained how she had been unable to leave her house for three weeks due to the weather.
“My grandson visited me at the New Year and cleared the snow from the path but then it snowed that night and I couldn’t get out the following day,” she said.
“I haven’t been out since we had our Christmas party on December 22 so I’m very grateful to the men on community service who have helped today—it’s marvellous.”
Mrs Mellon was equally pleased. “The conditions have been terrible and I’ve not been able to get out,” she said. “It’s smashing that these offenders have been out here clearing the paths. They’ve done a fantastic job.”
For other articles on community service in the aftermath of the heavy snows, visit here.
Community Service and Restorative Justice
Although the community service in this scheme was ordered, it was a true service to the community that helped offenders come in contact with folks. It was also a true service to specific community members who could then express their thankfulness and comment on the job that was done. That is a first step in breaking down barriers between community members and those who have committed crimes. At the same time, although the service was ordered, the men have something they can be proud of in helping these folks in this way.