Green Paper Consultation on Proposals to improve services in Wales to better meet the needs of children and young people who are at risk of entering, or are already in, the Youth Justice System

In Wales, the youth justice system encompasses matters which are devolved, such as education, housing, substance misuse, health, and social services, as well as elements which are not devolved, including the courts and judicial system.  

Children and young people who become involved in the youth justice system are some of the most disadvantaged young people in Wales.  We all know that there are real benefits to keeping them out of trouble - not only will we protect them from the stigmatisation and loss of opportunity, but at the same time we will protect our communities from crime.

The acquisition of a criminal record early in life can stifle the potential of a young person, denying them access to areas of employment and other opportunities. Our approach to youth justice in Wales has been underpinned by the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) since it was formally adopted by Welsh Ministers in 2004. The focus of this approach is particularly relevant to children and young people who offend because it concentrates on the needs of the young person rather than their behaviour.

This Consultation sets out the current landscape of youth justice provision in Wales and seeks views on its effectiveness including whether there is a need for primary legislation in order to improve services.

Consultation Events

Consultation events are being held across Wales during October and November 2012 with the aim of seeking views on proposals to improve youth justice services in Wales and to identify if there is a need for a Prevention of Youth Offending (Wales) Bill to implement these changes.

• 25 October at Welsh Government Offices, Llandudno Junction, Conwy, Wales. LL31 9RZ
• 9 November at Orbit Centre, Rhydcar Business Park, Merthyr Tydfil. CF48 1DL
• 15 November at the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority,  The Richard Ley Development Centre, Upper Fforest Way, Swansea. SA7 0AN

To book a place e-mail: youthjustice@wales.gsi.gov.uk.