Convictions may be spent but status still affects their futures

A new report by has revealed that 98% of people with experience of the criminal justice system face significant stigma and discrimination in their daily lives,

Charity Next Chapter Scotland published the report, saying stigma extends to those with a close family member with a conviction.

The report, entitled What is the Point?, draws together the findings from a year-long study into the impacts on the lives of those with a conviction or a close relative with a conviction.

Next Chapter Scotland spoke to over 300 people across Scotland, through focus groups, interviews, and a national survey, capturing the voices of people from a wide range of communities and backgrounds.

Alongside the headline finding on stigma, the report highlights the multiple related challenges faced by those impacted by the criminal justice system - including barriers to employment, serious mental and physical health impacts, and damage to family relationships - all of which make it harder for people to move on and rebuild their lives.

Report author Simo Bradley said: "It’s clear from our study that the impacts of a conviction go far beyond what is decided in the courtroom. Whether it’s life-long stigma, barriers to employment, or negative health impacts, involvement with the justice system leaves a lasting mark. This affects not only those with convictions but also their family members - people who have been convicted of no crime. If we want Scotland to be a country where people can move on from their past, urgent action must be taken."

To respond to these challenges, Next Chapter Scotland is launching a new collective advocacy project to bring people with lived experience together, strengthen their voice and push for systemic change. The new project, Rising Voices CAN, will enable people directly affected to speak out and influence policy, tackling stigma head-on and influencing for real improvements.

Next Chapter Scotland founder and CEO Eppie Sprung said: "The findings of this report show that people with convictions and their families have been spoken about for too long, without being heard. Our new collective advocacy project will be led by those with lived experience, bringing people together to speak as one, challenge stigma and push for a justice system that is truly fair and compassionate. Real change will only come when those most affected are at the heart of shaping it."

Find the report here: https://www.nextchapterscotland.org.uk/reports