FINDING the best approach for convicted criminals to tackle their addiction to drink is one of the many challenges that faces the team of probation officers in Warrington.

Jane McCaskill, who works as the leading officer for offenders that have been ordered to carry out an alcohol treatment requirement as part of their sentence, has revealed how it would be impossible to have a one-size-fits-all approach for each person who passes through her door.

Instead each probation officer will adopt a tailor-made approach to helping the offenders to tackle their drink issues.

She said: "Most people drink alcohol and most do so without any problems.

"We all know that a drink can sometimes help us to unwind or to relax with friends.

"Drinking in moderation is unlikely to lead to problems.

"But heavy drinking, getting drunk, or drinking at the wrong time or in the wrong place can lead to a whole range of difficulties.

“The amount of alcohol-related crime nationally is staggering.

"53 per cent of violent incidents involving adults were alcohol-related according to the latest crime statistics."

As part of Alcohol Awareness Week, Jane has spoken to the Warrington Guardian about the steps that are taken to help offenders who have committed a range of crimes including drink driving, shoplifting and domestic abuse to get their lives back on track.

She said: "My caseload ranges from street drinkers who have been homeless for years, committing public order offences and acquisitive crime to professional people who feel their drinking is perfectly normal and only realise it is a problem when they are convicted of a drink driving offence."

One offender who Jane is currently working with was sentenced to a 12 month community order for criminal damage at his mum's house.

The man, who has only been identified as Jack, has been able to admit he has a binge drinking problem due to the support provided through the programme.

She said: "Jack has progressed really well on his order so far.

"He has been honest and has admitted that he has a drink problem - which is a difficult thing to do.

“He is aware that he needs to get to the root of the problem to prevent further re-offending.

"This work includes attending group sessions at our local alcohol service provider, and work on emotional management skills as part of our one to one sessions.

"A large part of supervision is being friendly, supportive and listening, without being judgemental so that offenders are prepared to work with you and don’t want to re-offend.

“This is especially important with those who have problems with alcohol.

"They are quite often in denial about the levels of their drinking, and suspicious of criminal justice and health professionals.

"Sometimes progress is painfully slow, but it is really rewarding to see the lifestyle changes that can be made with the right support."