CONVICTED criminals with a drug addiction will receive treatment services within 24 hours of being released from jail.
Health Minister Hazel Blears announced the measures as part of the Government's new strategy to tackle street crime.
It is hoped the new move will ensure offenders with drug problems are identified early to help break the link between drugs and crime.
Ms Blears said: "Tackling street crime is now a top priority for the Government. Although the chances of becoming a victim of crime are the lowest in 20 years, street crime is rising.
"Ensuring that they have treatment should help reduce their re-offending, making our streets safer, as well as giving them a chance to rebuild their lives." The arrangements apply to offenders charged with drug-fuelled street robbery, bag snatches and car jacking. The scheme will be available within 24 hours of street offenders being released into communities. The Government's new street crime initiative is operating throughout Greater Manchester
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