The children’s hearing system in Scotland would be given additional powers to tackle antisocial behaviour, under the Antisocial Behaviour Etc (Scotland) Bill, writes Maggie Wood.
The Scottish executive argues that, in retaining the involvement of the hearing system, it has addressed concerns raised in consultation that the system would be undermined by the bill.
The bill proposes that the hearing system would be able to implement restriction of liberty orders to under-16’s to allow electronic monitoring as a condition of a supervision requirement. It is intended that these will only be used as part of an intensive programme of supervision and support or as an alternative to secure accommodation.
Controversially, powers would also be given to the hearing system to ensure that local authorities comply with the terms of supervision requirements imposed by the system.
The Children’s Panel Chairman’s Group fully supports the proposal to hold local authorities accountable for non-compliance with the decisions of the hearing system, pointing out that “all too often the hearing system takes the blame for things outwith its control”.
However, local authorities maintain that the national crisis in recruitment and retention of social workers has had a serious impact on the authorities’ ability to implement supervision orders in recent months.
Proposals include the extension of Antisocial Behaviour Orders to 12- to 15- year olds, greater police powers to disperse groups of young people, and increased use of electronic tagging and parenting orders.
Sheriff courts would also be able to require the reporter to convene a hearing to look at a child’s circumstances, including their welfare, when making a full or interim ASBO.
Youth Justice and the Youth Justice Board
26 August 2008
Substance misuse
15 August 2008
Details of government consultations
21 August 2008
Private Member Bills
25 July 2008
Government Legislation
25 July 2008
