Volunteer in second

Volunteer who believes in a second chance

The Dutch Probation Service is looking for volunteers to work with professionals to guide sex offenders.

Breaking isolation

Social isolation and social exclusion increase the chance of risky behaviour in convicted sex offenders. COSA, together with volunteers and professionals, is committed to breaking this isolation. They support the offender in their reintegration into society. This has proven effective in reducing the chance of recidivism. Offenders who participate must be motivated to build a crime‑free existence.

Three to five volunteers supervise one participant. A coordinator from Reclassering Nederland supervises the volunteers (the inner circle). In addition, there is support from a group of professionals, including a probation supervisor, a care provider and a community police officer (the outer circle). The probation coordinator is the link between the inner and outer circle. Volunteers are trained to identify risky behaviour early and inform the professionals, who can intervene where necessary.

Interested?

Volunteers are selected based on an intake interview. After that they attend a two‑day training. No specific education or background is necessary. We are looking for a diverse group of volunteers; young or old, male or female, and of diverse characters and backgrounds. Volunteers are cordially invited to register.

COSA stands for Circles for Support, Collaboration and Accountability. This project of the Netherlands Probation Service focuses on the reintegration of sex offenders. The motto is:
No new victims!

At COSA, volunteers and professionals (such as the probation service, social workers and the police) work together to help sex offenders return to society under supervision. We are looking for enthusiastic and strong volunteers who want to contribute to this goal.