Exeter charity marks 20 years supporting people through the courts

A local charity helping people navigate the court system has marked its 20th anniversary, with many in Exeter recognising the difference it is making to people’s lives and the wider community.

CASS+, a charity that offers free, confidential support to people going through court and into life beyond its milestone on Thursday 16 October, brings together staff, volunteers, supporters and former clients. 

The charity began in Cornwall in 2005 and has since expanded into five courts across Devon and Cornwall, including Exeter Crown and County Court, where its hub opened in 2023. The Exeter team now includes two staff members and six volunteers, offering practical help and emotional support to people attending court.

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Over the past two decades, more than 31,000 people have received quick advice in court waiting areas, and a further 13,000 have been supported one-to-one through and beyond their court experience. Many have been connected to local services to help with housing, mental health, addiction, debt, benefits and family issues.

Exeter resident Sarah Williams said she feels reassured knowing this kind of service is available in the city: “You don’t always see what goes on behind the court doors, but knowing there are people offering support, not judgement, makes Exeter feel like a more caring place. It shows that even when life goes wrong, someone here is willing to help you get back on track.”

CASS+ was founded after the then Chief of Devon and Cornwall Probation saw that many people in court needed help addressing the problems behind their offences. Working alongside early volunteer Carole Edwards, founder Mary Anne McFarlane developed a service that focused on reducing reoffending and supporting safer communities.

Volunteers have been at the heart of the charity’s work. Since 2005, 446 people have offered their time, earning CASS+ the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2017. Many have gone on to roles in social work, policing, probation, law and community support.

The Exeter and Newton Abbot hubs are now two of the charity’s busiest, providing a quiet space in court, guidance through legal processes and, when needed, continued support long after the hearing has ended.

In 2023, CASS+ expanded into the family courts. Since then, more than 400 people who faced complex hearings alone and without legal aid have been supported.

Steve Parker, CEO of CASS+, said the future of the charity relies on community belief in second chances. “This is what happens when people believe in the possibility of change. I’m looking forward to working with everyone to ensure more life-changing opportunities for the people who come to us for help. We are so thankful to all our supporters for making this happen.”

CASS+ now employs 14 staff and works with 30 volunteers across Exeter, Newton Abbot, Plymouth, Truro and Bodmin courts.