Agenda item

Report of the Corporate Director of Children and Young People’s Services – presented by Dave Summers, Countywide Manager, Youth Offending Service.

The Chairman advised Members that due to unforeseen circumstances, apologies from the Youth Offending Service had been received as the Countywide Manager, Youth Offending Service was unable to attend the Committee’s meeting. The Chair advised that any questions from Members would be sent to the Service and requested an update report in 6 months instead of 12.

The Overview and Scrutiny Officer presented the report that provided an overview of performance, progress and achievements (2016/17) in the context of the Youth Justice Plan refresh 2016/17. A copy of the new Youth Justice Plan 2017/19 had been circulated with the report for information (for copy of report see file of minutes).

Councillor Maitland referred to the number of remand bed nights which was 629 in 2016/17 and the previous year was 227 and sought clarification on the reasons why there was a sudden increase.

Councillor Crute referred to paragraphs 12 and 13 of the report in relation re-offending and if further detailed information on the reduction within the cohort could be included within the next update. Councillor Crute added that the service were doing a fantastic job but further information would provide knowledge on the impact of effective intervention and performance outurn.

The Chairman referred to the reduction in first time entrants to the youth justice system and if offenders knew that they are not going to enter the youth justice system would this make them offend as they knew they would not be arrested.

Chief Superintendent A Green responded that an increase in remand bed nights did not always mean there was a large increase in offences and could be linked to a low number of individuals who had committed more serious offences. Chief Superintendent A Green also advised Members of the positive use of restorative approaches within the County to which could lead to reducing reoffending and greater outcomes for victims.

Councillor Thompson asked how the figures compared nationally and was this reflected in the figures for County Durham or does the Council stand out alone. He also asked if these figures could be included in the update report.

The Chairman and the Overview Scrutiny Officer referred to the number of awards the County Council had achieved which were highlighted in the report and how the Council were diverse in terms of projects.

Resolved:

(i) That the report be noted.

(ii) That Members receive an update in 6 months.

(iii) That Members receive the Youth Justice Plan 2017/19.