Scots youth want updated system

The children’s hearing system is viewed as the soft option of youth
justice and is in danger of being sidelined by the drive to tackle
youth crime.

An inquiry, by NCH Scotland, heard that lack of investment, a rise
in referrals and shortage of social workers mean that the system is
ineffective in some areas. Young people said the system required
updating, with greater attention given to agencies that can help
them avoid offending. The results of the inquiry are to be
published later this year.