Youth Justice Service

We work with children aged 10 to 18 who are involved in the criminal justice system. This would be as a result of behaviour that has been determined by police to be an offence.

We work closely with the child, their parents or carers. Together with any other professional working with the family to prevent further offending.

This work is in part determined by the disposal that the child has been made subject to. It is also done through an assessment of the child by all involved. This makes sure they and their family have a voice in the planning and review of the work we complete.

Our responsibilities

Our Youth Justice Service has a mandatory duty to:

  • Reduce re-offending for those young people already involved in the criminal justice system.
  • Reduce the number of first-time entrants to the criminal justice system.
  • Reduce the number of young people entering custody.

Our statutory obligations are to:

  • Safeguard the young people we work with.
  • Protect the public from harm.
  • Work with victims of crime.

Our partners

We work with a range of specialists and partners to support the young person to achieve their planned outcomes including:

  • probation officers
  • social workers
  • police officers
  • CAMHS mental health specialists
  • education welfare officers and education mentors
  • drug and alcohol workers
  • parenting and family mediation workers
  • victim liaison officers

How we work with young people

Every child we work with has their own worker, often called the case manager.

This worker completes a thorough assessment from which a clear plan is developed. The case manager takes time to get to know the child and their family during this process. The case manager and relevant specialist will then work with the child. They and their family will then complete the key work that will stop further offending.

We then ensure all our work is reviewed and remains flexible. Making sure there are ongoing options for the child and their parent/carer to feedback their views on progress. If needed, we can change the focus of work to address emerging issues. We'll offer guidance to support and challenge children and families to achieve their desired outcomes.

Our team lead by your case manager, will guide and challenge you. This is to ensure that problems can be overcome and goals achieved.

Our triage and case planning meetings

Every case is subject to structured multi-agency planning. This meeting allows professionals to engage in a robust, challenging and solution focused process. This ensures the best outcomes for the child and any victims.