The Merseyside Deferred Prosecution Scheme is a programme run in conjunction with, and funded by, Merseyside Police.

Males aged 18-25 who have committed a first time, low-level offence are offered the opportunity to take part in a twelve week crime reduction course rather than be prosecuted. The scheme focusses on addressing the issues behind the offending such as substance misuse, unemployment, or family break down.

In 2022, reoffending rates of MDPS participants was 4%, 20% lower than the national average, which saved the British public £1.8m in associated policing, prosecution, NHS services and victim support costs.