DOZENS of volunteers have put themselves forward for a new neighbourhood justice scheme targeting troublemakers.

The Adver reported last month that Swindon would be one of only 16 areas in the country set to trial a new approach in tackling anti-social behaviour and low-level crime before it gets to the courts.

The Ministry of Justice will announce the introduction of Neighbourhood Justice Panels, with the town selected as the only area in the south outside of London to trial them over 18 months.

So far, 38 volunteers have signed up for the panels, which will see them take an active role in punishing criminals. Training takes place next month.

Simon Evans, anti-social behaviour manager for Swindon Council, said: “We’ve had a great response since the Adver ran the story.

“They all just want to do something and get involved.

“The 38 have come from all over town which is fantastic. We would like to encourage a few more from the Rodbourne, Penhill and Pinehurst areas, as that will be the first one to start up in May.

“After that we will launch another one each month.”

Using long-established principles of restorative justice, the panels will be made up of at least three volunteers from the community and will also see offenders come face-to-face with their victims.

The panels will then resolve to draw up an acceptable behaviour contract, usually between three and six months long, which will set out community payback and measures to prevent re-offending.

Much like Asbos, the contracts would be made under civil law, but any breaches would lead to criminal proceedings.

More volunteers are wanted to join the first of eight Neighbourhood Justice Panels in the town, which will be established in Gorse Hill, Rodbourne, Penhill and Pinehurst in May.

For more information on the panels or to apply to become a member, contact the Swindon Community Safety Partnership on 01793 466506 or email csp@swindon.gov.uk.