New initiative for high-crime areas

Young people in high street crime areas who are at risk of
offending are to be targeted by the Youth Justice Board, it was
announced this week.

At the third annual youth justice conference of the Association of
Chief Police officers, YJB chairperson Lord Warner said pre-crime
at risk panels are to piloted in 10 areas.

The panels will consist of experts from youth offending teams,
schools, police, health, and social services, and will identify
eight to 13 year olds displaying problematic behaviour.

The young people will then be referred with their families to the
panel, which will direct them into mainstream services and provide
key workers to offer help and advice. Attendance will be voluntary.