The Consortium was formed in 1998 to take advantage of the opportunity for enhanced public debate about crime and criminal justice provided by the creation of the Scottish Parliament and Executive. Its aim is to reduce the incidence and alleviate the impact of crime in our society as far as is reasonably possible by whatever morally acceptable means can be shown to be most effective.

The Consortium brings together leading organisations concerned with crime and criminal justice in Scotland, including the Howard League Scotland, APEX Scotland, Sacro (Safeguarding Communities - Reducing Offending), and NCH. Its Convenor is Baroness Vivien Stern. Based on a broad spectrum of experience and skills and the available factual information, its recommendations seek to promote open dialogue about the best ways to:

* reduce offending
* increase community safety
* ensure fair treatment for the victims of crime
* enhance civil liberties and
* increase the effectiveness of the juvenile and criminal justice systems.

http://www.scccj.org.uk/