Plan to support young people who have committed crime and to help victims
A plan to help children and young people impacted by crime has been recommended for approval by councillors.
The Child and Youth Justice (CYJ) Service supports children aged 8-18 who have either committed an offence or have been identified as being at risk of doing so.
It also has systems in place so that all children can access education, training and employment.
At their cabinet meeting on Thursday 10th July, councillors recommended the CYJ Plan 2025-26 for approval at this week's meeting of Full Council.
The plan will focus on reducing offending and creating safer communities through a child-first, trauma informed and restorative approach.
Families who have worked with the service explained how one child was in a better mindset since attending sessions and had shown remorse for their actions, while another child had been able to keep themselves safe and not put themselves in risky situations.
Victims of crime also gave their feedback on the service; one said a meeting with the child responsible for a crime was positive, while another said they benefited from explaining the impact of the crime to the child and their family and that they had also received an apology.
The CYJ Service vision is to improve outcomes for children, parents/carers and families as well as preventing and reducing the risk of offending which will lead to safer communities and fewer victims of crime.
As part of that vision they put the child first, take time to understand their experiences and target their work so it's appropriate to what the child has experienced.
Restorative work can be used to rebuild relationships and trust among children, victims and communities, however this option is only used when it will offer opportunities for understanding and reconciliation for everyone involved.
County Councillor County Councillor Simon Evans, deputy leader and cabinet member for Children and Families said:
"I have worked in adolescence services and community justice for more than 30 years and have seen first-hand the positive impact this important work has on both young people and victims.
"It is vital that the County Council is delivering the best service possible to support those impacted by crime and the wider community.
"This plan is something that we will review each year and it's important for us to highlight the work that's going on to keep communities in Lancashire safe."