Understanding Desistence from Crime: Insights from Professor Fergus McNeill

Safer Tomorrow Podcast

In this episode of the Safer Tomorrow podcast, Dr. Jo discusses the process of desistance from crime and why it is important for society. He is joined by Professor Fergus McNeil, who shares his experience in drug rehab and criminal justice, which sparked his interest in the field. They explore the various aspects of desistance, including its primary, secondary, and tertiary components. They also delve into the role of social workers in facilitating desistance and the challenges faced in achieving successful outcomes. The discussion highlights the importance of restorative and reparative approaches in criminal justice, focusing on repairing harm and creating a moral climate for acceptance. The episode concludes by emphasizing the need for a shift in societal attitudes towards rehabilitation and the transformative power of recognizing strengths and progress. Throughout the episode, they touch on the barriers to effective desistance-informed policies, such as political exploitation and public punitiveness. Additionally, they mention the Distant Voices project, which explores reintegration after punishment through creative processes. The episode inspires listeners to consider the importance of rehabilitation and its impact on individuals and society as a whole.