Agenda item

The Panel received a report and presentation on the transfer of young people from police custody to Local Authority Accommodation under the Police & Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (for copy of report and presentation see file of minutes).

The Youth Justice Service Manager, Dave Summers, explained that Police and Local Authorities are required to transfer young people who have been charged and denied bail to appropriate Local Authority accommodation which will be either non-secure accommodation, or, if the young person is deemed to pose an imminent risk of significant harm to the public, this will be secure accommodation.

Durham had been at the forefront of this protocol, when nationally the approach was varied, however over the last few years more young people have been detained in police stations. To address this, in Autumn 2021 the protocol / procedures were reviewed, refreshed and re-launched and over the past year, performance has improved with a greater understanding between agencies and there has been an increased number of referrals and the development of shared practice between the police, the Emergency Duty Team and the Youth Justice Service.

In response to questions and comments, the Service Manager informed the Panel that of the 28 transfer requests made since 2021, 20 of those transferred to appropriate accommodation and 8 remained in police custody. He explained that sometimes this may be the most appropriate and least disruptive option for the young person, especially if they are charged very late at night and need to be at court early the following morning.

Following the refresh of procedures staff receive regular training to ensure all parties understand their statutory duties and performance is subject to joint monitoring. 

Resolved:

That the report and presentation be noted.