THE justice minister has praised a rehabilitation programme at HMP Thorn Cross which helps offenders understand the effects their actions have had on their victims and others.

MP Shailesh Vara joined Warrington South MP David Mowat on a visit to the Appleton thorn prison to see how the Sycamore Project, led by prison chaplain Shawn Verhey, is helping offenders.

The pair commended the scheme and tipped it, along with similar ones, to save taxpayers across the country millions of pounds.

“I was very impressed with my visit to the Sycamore Project and to see the excellent work they are doing to reduce reoffending," said Mr Vara.

"This government has set an ambitious goal of breaking the cycle of reoffending, which will not only drive down crime rates, but will save the taxpayer millions.”

Mr Mowat echoed the minister's views and feels it can help offenders adjust back into society.

“I was delighted to be able to welcome Shailesh to Warrington to show him how we are working to reduce reoffending rates in our prisons," he added.

“Prison is there to punish offenders, but unless we also have robust programmes to reintegrate offenders back into society, the likelihood is they will offend again, end up in prison again and cost the taxpayer thousands of pounds again.”