About DIVERT®

DIVERT transforms the response to drug possession offences by replacing traditional arrest or caution methods with meaningful evidence-based interventions.

We offer education and support to individuals to break the cycle of re-offending and enhance life chances.

The outcome of a court appearance for those charged with low level drug offences is often a fine or a short prison sentence. However, evidence suggests that short-term prison sentences often lead to the offender committing more crime in the long term.

DIVERT offers an alternative approach that tackles the root causes of drugs possession offences.

Education courses and treatment pathways are provided for adults and young people found in possession of controlled substances such as heroin, cocaine, cannabis, amphetamines, and new psychoactive substances. These must be in quantities suggesting that the possession is for personal use.

Please note: The programme is not available to those who have been caught ‘in possession with intent to supply’.

The DIVERT course covers:

• Drug-specific harm reduction advice
• Naloxone advice and dispensing
• Economic and lifestyle impact of drug use
• Tailored individual advice and support
• Onward referrals to specialist treatment

The DIVERT programme has created positive impact and lasting value for many of our participants and continues to do so.

Benefits of DIVERT:

• Reduces re-offending and harm
• Cost and time saving
• Easy and quick referral method for police officers
• Evidence-based approach offering swift response
• Provides support and intervention at the right time
• Appropriately prevents entry into the criminal justice system
• Enhances police/community relations