Children to be given more support in overhaul of youth justice system in effort to keep streets safer
Children will be provided with earlier support to steer them away from a life of crime as part of an overhaul of the youth justice system.
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As part of the plans, experts will aim to provide earlier intervention, more targeted support, and tackle the toot causes of crime to create safer communities.
Published by the Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy on Monday, the announcement comes as figures show eight out of ten prolific offenders committed their first crime as a child, while two-thirds of those released from custody reoffend within a year.
New measures announced also include piloting new Youth Intervention Courts, which will for the first time bring together judges, youth justice services and specialist support to tackle the drivers of offending and keep young people on track.
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Speaking about the reforms, Mr Lammy said: "Too many young people are being drawn into crime, with devastating consequences for victims, communities and their own futures.
"These reforms lay the foundation to intervene far earlier, support families, and tackle the drivers of offending so fewer young people become trapped in cycles of crime, creating safer streets and fewer victims."
The courts will also provide intensive supervision and tailored interventions, including health or educational requirements.
Parents and carers will also face greater responsibility for children who commit crime or cause anti-social behaviour.
There will also be a greater emphasis on addressing children who present the highest risk of committing the most serious and violent offences.
Ministers will explore strengthening Youth Rehabilitation Orders with intensive supervision and surveillance, allowing electronic monitoring to track their whereabouts alongside robust rehabilitation activity to keep the public safe.
Minister for Sentencing and Youth Justice, Jake Richards, said: "Put simply, the youth justice system is not working – not for children, victims and communities blighted by crime.
"These reforms will modernise the system, keep pace with emerging risks and ensure young offenders get the support they need turn their lives around, while improving public safety."
Anti-knife crime campaigner and founder of Fazamnesty, Faron Paul, added: "Fazamnesty welcomes the Government’s proactive approach in the Youth Justice White Paper, which focuses on early intervention, prevention, and support for young people facing growing pressures and exploitation.
"Prevention is always better than cure. By working together with organisations like Fazamnesty and other community groups, we can help guide young people away from crime and create safer communities for everyone."