The Strategy for Justice in Scotland: Summary - Scottish Government

Innovation
Innovation is central to our approach. To tackle some of
Scotland’s most enduring and complex problems, we know that
business as usual is not enough. We must continually look for
ways to do things better and more cost-effectively, informed
by the evidence of what works. That means harnessing new
technologies and embracing new ways of working.
Working with our partners, we have demonstrated a
track record of innovation. We have commissioned
leading experts such as Lord Carloway, Lord Gill, Dame
Elish Angiolini and the late Campbell Christie to cast a
critical eye over problem areas and key services and to
recommend innovative solutions. These reviews have
helped to shape the future agenda for criminal and civil
justice in Scotland and how we organise our public services
and focus our resources.
Several examples illustrate our innovative approach.
The significant recent reductions in violent crime have
been supported by a ‘public health’ approach to tackling
violence, focusing on prevention and early intervention.
Key to this is the commitment to support the national
Violence Reduction Unit in developing innovative practice.
Another example is the development of the No Knives,
Better Lives youth engagement programme, which provides
education and support to young people to prevent and
deter knife carrying and use.
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