Turning Point Scotland are delighted to be partnered with seven other charities- Access to Industry, Action for Children, Apex Scotland, Barnardo’s, Circle, Families Outside, and Sacro to deliver Upside which offers consistent, trauma-informed and person-centred support across the country.

Upside focuses on reducing reoffending, supporting reintegration, and improving outcomes for people and communities. There’s no judgement, no catch, and no downside—just meaningful support at a crucial time.

Funded by the Scottish Government, Upside represents a major commitment to justice reform. By working collaboratively, the service aims to reduce reoffending, strengthen community safety, and foster long-term change through positive, trusted relationships

Now available across Scotland, Upside will be embedded throughout Scotland’s prison estate and community networks. Its consistent national structure is delivered through locally focused “pods”, connecting the partnership organisations with Community Justice Partnerships, recovery networks, and local services.

A throughcare staff member explained:

“When people come out [of prison] and that first day doesn’t go to plan and they’re still left with needs unmet, they’re so much more likely to return to either an abusive relationship or drugs or alcohol or negative coping behaviours. We will have someone there at the gate waiting to take them home, take them to a safe place and get them sorted.”

Upside’s whole-family approach recognises that successful reintegration often relies on rebuilding and maintaining personal relationships. The service supports families alongside the individual, helping to create a stable environment that benefits everyone.

Upside, Scotland’s new national prison throughcare service was launched in Glasgow’s Old Fruitmarket on 1 April 2025. Designed to support people moving from short-term custody or remand back into the community, Upside offers trauma-informed, person-centred support tailored to individual needs.

Find out more about Upside here: National Voluntary Throughcare Service