Staff working for Scotland's social work services welcomed the Scottish Executive move away from setting up a mammoth 'single correctional agency' and instead go for a partnership approach at local level to reduce re-offending.

And the campaign that we fought against the proposals was significant. Stephen Smellie, Chair of UNISONScotland's Social Work Issues Group said: "Those working in Criminal Justice will welcome the recognition by the Executive that the creation of a new quango would do nothing to reduce re-offending and would threaten the ability to work with people in the community.

"We are glad that the Government has recognised the warnings of UNISON and over 90% of the respondents to the consultation.

"Had we not had a political fund allowing us to campaign across the political spectrum, it would have been so much less effective.

"The efforts of branches and members lobbying MSPs at local level alongside the formal political fund activities were critical in persuading the Executive".

The union had also worked with the large number of other organisations that opposed the plans. Joe Di Paola, UNISON's Scottish Organiser for Local Government sounded a warning, however, about the new national direction the Executive are proposing to use to oversee the various agencies involved in Criminal Justice. "We will have to look carefully at the proposals", he said.

"No one objects to having someone to set standards and promote good practice, but if this becomes a strait jacket that tries to enforce a 'one-size-fits-all' solution on all local initiatives, it will run the risk of stifling good practice and innovative projects.

"We will want to ensure that not only are services joined up, but that they are accountable to local people."

UNISON has consistently campaigned against the single agency, advocating more emphasis and resources to alternatives to custody, and increased networking between central and local agencies to develop innovative schemes.

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