Updated Youth Knife Crime Guidance
In the year ending June 2024, there were over 50,000 knife crimes in total. The new guidance has been introduced in response to the government’s target to halve knife crime over this decade.
It is the government’s view that historically, knife possession has not been treated with the seriousness or urgency that it requires. The following guidance sets out the expectation that response to knife possession should always be Swift, Robust, Evidence-based and Thorough (SRET).
Swift
Police should alert the Youth Justice Service (YJS) of youth knife possession offences within one working day or as soon as practicable. Following a referral, the YJS should begin working with a child within no longer than four weeks.
Robust
All cases of knife possession should all be responded to with a mandatory intervention plan to ensure public protection. Previously, children charged with a first offence of knife possession had the possibility of receiving a Youth Caution. Now, the updated guidance outlines that all cases of knife possession should only be met with:
This may be appropriate if the severity of the offence means a charge should be pursued.
This is an out-of-court-disposal (alternative to a charge) which may be appropriate where the child would benefit from structured rehabilitative support.
This is a pre-court diversionary matter where the police decide to pause prosecution until the child in question has been given the opportunity to engage in rehabilitation activities. This may be appropriate in certain situations where it is not proportionate to criminalise the child and where they would benefit from structured rehabilitative support. If the child successfully completes the support activities, then the case will typically be dropped.
Evidence-based
There must be significant evidence to show that the intervention actively reduces reoffending. Interventions such as knife crime education or awareness courses should not be used as there is little to no evidence to support their effectiveness.
All interventions for child knife offences must also be based on a thorough assessment of the child’s individual circumstances and should be targeting the root cause of their offending behaviour.
Thorough
All children undergoing interventions should be actively monitored to ensure that they are complying and engaging with the support activities. If the child breaches any conditions set within their intervention plan, action must be taken by the police and by the YJS to ensure public protection and prevent reoffending. This may include charging the child for the original offence.
The Impact on Youth Knife Crime in the UK
The intention of this guidance is to protect the public and protect the children involved from further reoffending while working towards the government’s goal to halve knife crime.
The guidance has amended youth knife crime interventions to involve firmer consequences with better quality and more timely support. As youth offending specialists, Lawtons are committed to ensuring all children under our instruction are treated justly in accordance with this new guidance and are met with the best possible outcome.
How can Lawtons help?
If a child has been found in possession of a knife and is being investigated by the police, it is vital to ensure you seek advice from youth crime specialists who keep updated with government guidance and understand the best way to protect children in the criminal justice system. For expert advice and guidance, get in touch with a member of our team today.
