NCJ Number
229320
Date Published
2009
Length
70 pages
Annotation
This report reviews the first year of the British Government's implementation of its 2006/7 Youth Action Plan and indicates what is planned for the next year.
Abstract
The Youth Crime Action Plan launched last year is a cross-government program of action design to counter youth crime and antisocial behavior while reducing reoffending. Its strategy is to make clear to youth that laws will be enforced, and they will be held accountable for their lawbreaking. Prevention is also a focus of the plan, as it targets the root causes of youth crime. Attention is given to the early identification of children and youth who are at risk for developing serious criminal behavior. Mandatory intervention is to be conducted with their families in order to provide support and services that will prevent escalation into habitual, serious crime. In implementing the plan in its first year, a separate custodial facility for youth who require secure conditions. It has improve health care and education for youth in custody. Victims of youth crime have been helped through the creation of the Code of Practice for Victims of Crime. Prevention efforts have included a focus on problematic behaviors and poor attendance at school, along with an unprecedented investment in positive activities for youth and resources for parents. Signs that these efforts have been effective include data that show fewer youth are reoffending, and those who do reoffend have committed fewer crimes. Fewer youth are using drugs and alcohol, and more are participating in positive activities. Regarding the criminal victimization of youth, the number of youth victimized by serious youth violence has declined. This report also outlines plans for furthering the efforts of the Youth Action Plan for the next year.