ABSTRACT
This chapter considers the desistance model of offending and how it applies to work with violent and sexual offenders in the community. It focuses on the particular experiences of taking a desistance approach to work with violent and sex offenders. Desistance approaches are often explained in terms of three broad perspectives: agency and structure and desistance; life stages; and criminal justice interventions. All three perspectives can be related to sex offender desistance. Taking a desistance approach to work with sex offenders should not simply be seen as a more effective way to address offending behaviour; it is also an approach grounded in ethics. It is more important for sex offenders to be seen to be acknowledging their need for treatment and positive engagement with rehabilitative efforts. Convicted sex offenders face obstacles in housing, employment, finances, and relationships. Circles of support and accountability provide offenders, known as core members, with support and accountability as they re-enter the community.
