With reference to the learning activities in Week 2, discuss the purpose and functions of the youth justice system in England and Wales in terms of your own practice and experience.
Introduction
In this assignment I am going to discuss the purpose and functions of the Youth Justice System. I will start by exploring the build up to the legislations that underpins the Youth Justice System which is the Crime and Disorder Act 1998. I will also discuss the purpose and functions of Youth Justice System and how my role contributes to their declared objectives. Finally I will conclude by indicating the effectiveness of the Youth Justice System.
Discussion
In 1996 a report was published by the Audit Commission titled Misspent Youth: Young People and Crime. An investigation was performed as there were concerns about the way the youth justice system was operating; the system was found to be “Inefficient” and “ineffective” in addressing youth crime. To create a solution to the recognised problems brought to light from Misspent Youth, a White Paper titled No More Excuses was proposed in 1997. Following the recommendations submitted by No more Excuses, this paper provided the groundwork for the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 Crime and Disorder Act 1998 stipulated that
‘It shall be the principle aim of the youth justice system to prevent offending by children and young persons’ Section 37(1).
The act brought about a number of provisions, such as creation of the Youth justice Board (YJB). The YJB was established to observe and supervise the Youth Justice System for England and Wales, to focus on prevention of offending and reoffending for adolescents and to recognise and commission prosperous evidenced based research in effective practice. The Crime and Disorder Act 1998 gave a mandate ‘to co-ordinate the provision of youth justice
