Criminals in Colchester are to be given reading and writing lessons in a scheme aimed at stopping them offend again.

Convicted criminals will be offered the chance to take part in the scheme when they are on probation.

The idea is to equip them with skills to help them find work and keep them on the straight and narrow.

It is hoped it will ease criminals' frustration about not being able to communicate about their problems.

Essex Probation Service has teamed up with social services and the police to launch the programme addressing issues of literacy and dyslexia.

It is part of Colchester Council's crime and disorder reduction strategy, which involves many sectors of the community working to cut crime.

Essex Senior Probation Officer David Mead said: "A high proportion of offenders have low levels of literacy, and this is obviously linked to crime.

"We know lack of skills prevents access to employment, leaving offenders unable to manage day to day situations."

Offenders on probation are assessed for levels of literacy and other behavioural factors and referred to either adult education classes at Greyfriars College or further assessments.

Some classes have started and already offenders have achieved a marked improvement in their reading age.

Offenders are encouraged to increase specific skills for employment, and although only NVQ1 is currently obtainable, more specific programmes and qualifications for employment may be offered later by linking up with firms to provide training.

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