PROFESSIONALS working with prisoners, ex-prisoners and people sentenced to community punishments have been honoured with awards for their efforts to reduce re-offending.

Paul Foweather, deputy director of custody for the National Offender Management Service North East and Yorkshire region, presented the annual Nepacs awards at an event held at Lumley Castle.

Four main awards were presented by the Durham-based charity.

Free The Way, based in Seaham, helps recovering addicts, offering accommodation and support to escape the trap of dependence and move on to independent living.

Jane Rayner, acting Activity Hub Manager at HMP Durham, for the last year, was honoured for the inspirational support she has given to colleagues and staff and advice to other establishments.

Recovery coach Peter Currah, from the Northern Engagement for Recovery from Addiction Foundation, began as a volunteer but is now a full-time coach, mentoring new volunteers.

Prison officer Ian Currie is involved in organising family activities at HMP Kirklevington.

Another 25 certificates of high commendation were presented to individuals and teams working in the criminal justice system across the North-East.

Helen Attewell, chief executive of Nepacs, said: “The move from custody to community can be a particularly difficult time for prisoners and their families as they attempt to establish a life free from offending.

“It is at this point that prisoners need a great deal of help and support to help them prepare for their release and to aid successful rehabilitation in the community.

“The Nepacs awards are our way of honouring the dedicated professionals working across the north east to make the difference to the safety of our society through reducing the risk of reoffending.