The Probation Board for Northern Ireland has launched a new mobile phone app designed to help offenders desist from crime.

The Changing Lives app allows offenders to create a journal to record how they feel on a day-to-day basis, and get useful information, advice and contacts to help with life on probation.

Cheryl Lamont, acting director of the Probation Board, said: “Changing Lives is the first app developed specifically to help offenders in Northern Ireland to desist from crime and become rehabilitated.

“Available on both Android and iOS it enables offenders who have problems with their mental health or addictions to identify their problems and find support. It offers advice on how to overcome problems with addictions and signposts people to appropriate services. People who believe they are at risk can also directly ring the Samaritans or Lifeline from the app.

“Over 70 per cent of people on probation supervision have an addiction to alcohol or drugs. Over 30 per cent have a mental health issue. Therefore we hope this app is a useful tool in assisting their rehabilitation.”

Justice Minister Claire Sugden added: “Probation works within the justice system to change the lives of those who have offended and reduce the number of victims of crime.

“We know from research that poor mental health and addictions is a major factor in people reoffending. We also know that tackling these two issues is critical if we are to help those who have offended overcome their own difficulties to build a new life, but also and importantly, in reducing reoffending.

“Hopefully this app will assist those who have offended to desist from crime and contribute to creating a safer NI.”