COSA - Circles of Support: Preventing Harm, Building Hope

On Probation

In the last episode of the series, we focus on volunteerism, in particular on the work of CoSA (Circles of Support and Accountability). CoSA is a community-based initiative operating on restorative principles. CoSA assists individuals who have been convicted of a serious sexual offence(s) in their efforts to live a life free of crime and harmful behaviour.

These individuals, who are referred to as Core Members, participate in the programme voluntarily. The aim of the Circle is to prevent further victims of sexual harm. A CoSA is made up of an inner Circle of four-six volunteers and an Outer Circle of professionals working with the Core Member.

Colm has a long chat with Michael Daly, CoSA Coordinator, and Gerry Donohue, CoSA volunteer.

Warning: While the subject of this episode is volunteerism, we do make reference to those with convictions for sexual offences and their rehabilitation, which could be upsetting to listeners.