News

Specialist youth courts and children’s hearings to fast track dealing with young persistent offenders are to be piloted in Scotland, following an announcement by first minister Jack McConnell.

The proposals form key components of a 10-point action plan developed by a ministerial group on youth crime. The plan is designed to tackle the problem of persistent offending, enhance community safety and improve the effectiveness of Scotland’s youth justice systems.

McConnell said: "This action plan sets out the steps we will take in vital areas. We need to put in place arrangements that stand the test of time and make a lasting difference."

Other aspects of the plan include introducing national standards to operate between local authorities, criminal justice services and children’s hearings. Secure units will be re-configured to make more places available and to create accommodation for females only.

Measures will also be introduced to promote parental responsibility and the role of parents in tackling youth crime.

The announcement came the day after an additional £15 million was allocated to tackle youth crime. The plan will be funded by this allocation, and a further £25.5 million announced in February.

Justice minister Jim Wallace, said: "The police, courts and children’s hearings need a range of approaches to deal with the variety of situations, and the flexibility to use these according to the circumstances."

Minister for education and young people Cathy Jamieson said: "The partnership approach is critical to success in this area. We need to ensure youth crime cases are brought before the children’s hearings and courts sooner, and do more to deal with persistent offenders who account for so much youth crime."

www.scotland.gov.uk