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More than 40 per cent of people believe that half of all crimes are committed by young people, according to a new report, writes Maria Ahmed.

The survey of public attitudes published by the Policy Press reveals a pessimistic view of youth crime heavily influenced by the media.

Researchers found almost 80 per cent of those surveyed believed the number of young offenders had increased over the previous two years, despite official figures showing a nine per cent reduction.

The report by King’s College, London and the University of Ottawa also found that while the majority of people saw the youth justice system as “too lenient,” over half supported the use of community sentences.

Many believed discipline in schools was the most effective way of preventing youth crime, followed by tougher sentences and more policing.

If the young offender had made some restorative steps, such as writing a letter of apology to the victim, support for custody declined further.

Around 60 per cent of people claimed that media reports had influenced their views.

The conclusions of the report echoed a recent survey for Community Care that showed more than 70 per cent of people believe the government’s youth crime policy is failing.

The research, conducted by NOP, also found that almost nine out of 10 people think there should be a greater use of community punishments for children who offend.

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