Involvement with the justice system can affect many parts of life, including your wellbeing. For some people, the impact feels manageable, while for others it can lead to real challenges with stress, relationships, housing, work, or confidence. Everyone’s experience is different, and the effects of justice involvement can vary widely — from short-term disruption to longer-lasting pressures.
Anyone can find this experience difficult, no matter their background or circumstances. But support is available. You’ll find a range of helpful resources below.
Let us know what resource works well for you. If you have any other suggestions for our self-help pages, please send them to us at ithrive@health-in-mind.org.uk.
Factsheets
This factsheet will explain how the court system works in Scotland
How do courts in Scotland work from BBC Bitesize
Tips and information
Here you’ll find tips and information to help you support yourself if you’ve been involved in the justice system
Learning Hub from Community Justice Scotland
Information Hub from Next Chapter Scotland
Your wellbeing from Apex Scotland
Preparing for work from Apex Scotland
Information and resources from Apex Scotland
Support for Vulnerable People Involved in the Criminal Justice System
Here you’ll find tips and information to help you look after your wellbeing if you’ve witnessed a crime or been a victim of one.
Victim Support information from Police Scotland
Young Scot Safety from Young Scot
Helpline and Support Services from Safer Scotland
Organisations and services
Here is a list of UK wide organisations related to navigating the justice system.
If you are looking for local support, please go to our service directory to find out what services and projects are available to you.