What are the causes of Youth Crime in the UK?
Youth crime refers to criminal offences committed by children aged between 10-17. Data collected by the Youth Endowment Fund suggest that over the past decade, children’s involvement in serious violence has increased.
Experiences in early childhood
Research shows that adverse experiences in a child’s early years are often linked with poor educational attainment, lack of opportunities for employment, involvement in criminality, as well as both poor mental and physical health. If children grows up in an environment where there is already criminal activity, this may also impact their behaviour.
Disengagement from education
Children who have been disengaged or excluded from school are more likely to be both victims and perpetrators of serious violence. The declining school budgets and rising rates in exclusions mean that many children are not receiving the support they require and are often let down by the education system.
Poor and unsafe housing
Children from deprived areas who grow up in squalid and unsafe housing are more likely to feel shame surrounding their upbringing and feel isolated within society. These emotions often lie at the root of serious violence in children.
Lack of youth services
The lack of high-quality youth services has been linked to the number of children involved in serious violence. Decreased government spending on youth services has caused a reduction of places on youth programmes, which has been linked to an escalation of violence between young people.
Media influences
Social media can play a significant role in triggering serious violence among young people. This influence can stem from consuming and sharing violent content which normalises aggressive behaviour. In some cases, violence is provoked by the malicious distribution of videos or images targeting individuals.
Lack of trust in the Police and the Criminal Justice System
The lack of trust between the Police and children can contribute significantly to serious violence in youths. When children perceive law enforcement negatively, they are less likely to seek help from them, which can leave them vulnerable to exploitation or to involvement in criminal activity.
Poverty and Inequality
Children growing up in poverty and facing social inequality are more vulnerable to the appeal of fast money through drug distribution. For those who feel powerless or as though they lack control within their own lives, the drug market can offer a sense of control, status, and financial gain.
How can youth crime be prevented?
There are a number of government-run programmes available that aim to keep children and young people away from crime. Many programmes are run by the local council’s Youth Justice Service or by local youth charities. These programmes can often involve the child’s parents and families.
Children are often referred to prevention programmes either by the Police or by the local Youth Justice Service. Children may be placed on a programme if:
- They have been in trouble with the Police
- They are believed to be at risk of offending
- They have been or are involved in anti-social behaviour
Attending these programmes is voluntary. Both the child and their parents or guardians must agree to the child’s participation prior to attending.
What types of youth crime prevention programmes are there?
The type and format of the specific crime prevention programme can vary, however all will involve activities that will help to divert children away from crime.
The two main programmes are:
- Youth inclusion programmes. These are designed for children aged 8-17 and are typically for set periods of time. If the child wishes to or if they find the programme helpful, they may attend for longer.
- Youth inclusion and support panels. These panels are designed for children aged 8-13 and are made up of local youth and/or social workers. The panels ensure that children have access to services to prevent them engaging in criminal activity, such as extra help at school or treatment for mental or physical health issues.
As part of both these programmes, an ‘intervention plan’ will be established, which describes what the young person is expected to do and what type of support they will receive. Everyone, including the child and their family, must agree to the terms in this plan.
The Hertfordshire Constabulary also has established a dedicated Child Criminal Exploitation Prevention and Diversion Team, which provides an early intervention and preventative approach for those at risk of becoming involved in gangs, criminal exploitation and knife crime.
How are families and carers involved in youth crime prevention?
If a child is attending a youth crime prevention programme, typically their parents, carers and/or families will be involved, for example attending classes with their children or simply ensuring that the child adheres to the intervention plan in place.
In some instances, parents or carers of a child who has offended or is at risk of offending may be asked to attend a parenting programme. Typically, these are voluntary but on occasion they may be mandatory.
Parenting programmes vary on a case-by-case basis and are adjusted depending on what is best for the specific child and their family. The programme may involve:
- Improving parenting skills
- Ensuring the home environment is not the cause of the child’s offending
Contact Lawtons’ Youth Solicitors Today
When a child comes into contact with the criminal justice system in any way, it’s important to ensure that they are protected. If the Police have arrested your child and you’re unsure about how to proceed, Lawtons is here to help. Our specialist team can offer expect advice and guide you through the legal process to work towards a fair outcome. Get in touch today to discuss how we can assist you.
FAQs about Youth Crime Prevention
How common is youth crime in the UK?
At what age can a child be charged with a criminal offence?
