Further Information about the Youth Offending Service

The Youth Justice System

The Youth Justice System deals with children and young people aged 10 - 17 years who have either offended or are at risk of offending. The majority of young people who have offended more that once or twice will be dealt with in a special Youth Court.

Prevention of Re-offending

Young offenders are referred to the Youth Offending Services where they are supervised in the community and supported to ensure they adhere to the terms and conditions of their sentence.

The Youth Offending Services will work, where appropriate, with the young person's parents, guardians or carers to help them develop ways to deal with their child's behaviour.  Follow the link on this page for more information

Prevention for Those at Risk of Offending

The Youth Offending Services also run voluntary programmes for young people at risk of offending, which give young people constructive activities to do in order to keep them out of trouble. The age range will be younger for those at risk of offending generally from 8 years of age.

Victims

The Youth Offending Services work closely with victims of crimes caused by young people. Young People may be required to meet the victims of their offence in order for them to understand fully the impact of their actions and to allow them the chance to make amends for any damage and distress they may have caused.