Glossary: Unpaid work

Provided by local probation areas/trusts. An unpaid work requirement is a vehicle for repairing harm to the young person's community in a constructive and demanding way. It is viewed first and foremost as a punishment, with the rehabilitation of the young person a secondary, although important consideration. Work undertaken could include, for example, work to improve community facilities or graffiti cleaning. Unpaid Work is only available for young people aged 16 and 17 years at the time of their conviction. When a YRO with an Unpaid Work Requirement is made, the number of hours which the young person is required to work must be specified. The hours of unpaid work ordered must be, in aggregate, not less than 40 hours and not more than 240 hours.