One of the issues I hear about most often from residents is crime and antisocial behaviour in our communities. People want to feel safe where they live, work and raise their families. They also want to know that young people who are struggling are getting the support they need before they become caught up in crime.
That’s why I’ve welcomed the Government’s major overhaul of the youth justice system, which is focused on intervening earlier, reducing reoffending and making our streets safer.
The reality is that too many young people are being drawn into crime, often with serious consequences not only for victims and communities, but for their own futures. Figures show that eight in ten prolific offenders first committed an offence as a child, highlighting the importance of acting early before problems escalate.
For too long, our system has been too reactive. By the time many young people come into contact with the justice system, opportunities to provide early support have already been missed. These new reforms aim to change that.
By expanding targeted prevention programmes, more children and young people identified as being at risk can receive support before they become involved in crime. The goal is simple: to help address problems early and steer young people towards positive opportunities rather than criminal behaviour.
Turnaround and Youth Intervention Courts
The Government is also investing an additional £15.4 million each year into the Turnaround programme, supporting around 12,000 children who are at risk of entering the youth justice system over the next three years. This programme focuses on providing practical support and interventions that can make a real difference to young lives.
There will also be pilot Youth Intervention Courts, which will bring together judges, youth justice services and specialist support organisations to address the underlying causes, rather than simply dealing with the symptoms of a problem.
When young people have opportunities, positive role models and access to support, they are far less likely to become involved in crime. Prevention will always be better than picking up the pieces later.
By intervening earlier, addressing the causes of offending and creating more opportunities for young people to succeed, we can help make Exeter a safer place for everyone.
