A Kirkby community centre has received a new lease of life thanks to a scheme that sees offenders give back to the community.

Over several days people taking part in the Immediate Justice scheme completely repainted and refreshed the interior of the social area used by elderly residents at The Homesteads.

The activity formed part of a wider programme of reparation and restorative work that sees low-level offenders held accountable for their actions by carrying out meaningful work in the communities they’ve impacted.

The Homesteads, which hosts regular activities and support sessions for older people, was selected as a priority for redecoration after feedback from residents and partners highlighted the need for improvement.

Offenders worked under supervision to repaint communal spaces and help make the facility more welcoming and pleasant, using paint donated by Ashfield-based Green Gnomes.

Dwayne, of Mansfield, one of the service users who spent a day on the Immediate Justice scheme after being caught in possession of cannabis, praised the scheme.

He said: “It’s a lot easier going through Immediate Justice and being able to give back rather than going through the courts. It has made me think about my actions.”

Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Commissioner Gary Godden added: “This is exactly what Immediate Justice is all about — giving back to communities and helping to repair the harm caused by anti-social behaviour.

“By using reparation to improve a valued local facility, we’re supporting residents and sending a strong message that there are consequences for crime.

“I’m proud to see the difference this work is making in Kirkby and right across Nottinghamshire.”

The work at The Homesteads is just one of many impactful days of action delivered across Nottinghamshire through the scheme since its launch in January 2024.

More than 500 offenders have taken part in schemes, such as the jet-washing and restoration of a war memorial at Ladybrook in Mansfield.

Each project not only improves the environment, but also supports wider efforts to reduce anti-social behaviour and increase public confidence.

Coun John Wilmot, executive lead for community safety at Ashfield District Council, said: “We want to see a safe and stronger Ashfield for all our residents and seeing those who have done harm to our communities, or committed offences, give something back in such a positive way, illustrates how programmes like Immediate Justice can make a real difference.”

Ashfield neighbourhood policing inspector Chris Boylin said the project at The Homesteads was a brilliant example of how partnership-led initiatives like Immediate Justice could bring visible improvements, while also encouraging accountability from those who’ve caused harm.

“The feedback we’ve had from residents has been incredibly positive, and it’s great to see this facility restored to a standard the community can be proud of,” he added.