This research is for England, but it will also impact Wales.
The findings published today reinforce what we already know – children in England and Wales who enter the justice system are often among the most vulnerable in society. Most have unmet needs, with experiences of exclusion from education, persistent absence, special educational needs and contact with children’s social care, and this is typically all before any contact with the justice system. This is something the Youth Justice Board, practitioners across youth justice, education and safeguarding have long understood.
These findings also reinforce the importance of the Child First evidence base; recognising that children in the justice system are just that – children, often with complex experiences and additional needs. Interventions to keep them out of the justice system are most effective when they take place as early as practical, focus on support, positive identity development, relationships, safety and long-term outcomes.
Thanks to the incredible partnership work that goes on and the application of the Child First evidence base, there has been significant and consistent progress in youth justice in recent years. This includes fewer children entering the youth justice system and historically low numbers of children in custody.
However, these findings highlight the importance of continuing to strengthen prevention, inclusion and early intervention across the wider system, and the need for even greater partnership working for our most vulnerable children.
This data underlines the need for strong partnerships between education, children’s services, health, community organisations and youth justice services to identify needs earlier and intervene before problems escalate.