Clackmannanshire Council Online

Court Based Social Work Services

Court Based Social Work Services

Court based social work services help the court make informed decisions about sentencing. 

We do this by providing reports, sharing information and explaining a person’s situation, risks and support needs. 

We work with people at important points in the court process and may involve other services, such as health, housing or prison services, if needed. 

Court based social work services are involved when

• the court asks for a Justice Social Work Report (JSWR) 
• someone is being considered for bail, remand or custody 
• the court needs more information before deciding on a sentence 

You cannot refer yourself to this service. Referrals come directly from the court. 

For further information and support around Court Based Social Work Services, you can access the community directory or the Community Interventions and Support Directory - Community Justice Scotland. 

Our role is to support the court by providing clear information and advice. 

This includes

• preparing reports for court (including JSWRs) 
• assessing risks and support needs 
• giving professional advice to the court 
• sharing important information to support safe transitions to custody or community services 
• working with other services where needed 

For more detailed information about specific services, see

• Justice Social Work Reports (JSWR) 
• Bail supervision 
• Diversion from prosecution 
• Community sentences 
• Support after custody (throughcare) 

If you are appearing in court: 

• The court may ask for a report or information 
  • This helps the court decide on a sentence​
• You may meet a social worker 
  • We may speak with you about your situation, background and support needs​
• Information is given to the court 
  • This may be a written report or advice to help inform the decision ​
• The court makes a decision 
  • The Sheriff or Justice of the Peace decides on the outcome of your case

If you are remanded or sent to custody, important information will be shared with the prison to support your safety and wellbeing.