Youth Offending Service
Cheshire Youth Offending Services are provided in partnership between the Council, Cheshire Constabulary, National Offender Management Services (Cheshire), the NHS, Connexions (Chester & Warrington) and The Drugs, Alcohol and Action Team. Our aim is to prevent offending by young people aged 10-17.
Who are young offenders?
Young offenders are children and young people aged between 10-17 who break the law. When they do they become subject to the youth justice system.
What is the youth justice system?
The principal aim of the youth justice
system is to prevent offending by children and young persons.
The six key objectives of the youth justice system are:
- The swift administration of justice, so that every young person accused of breaking the law has the matter resolved without delay;
- Confronting young offenders with the consequences of their offending, for themselves and their families, their victims and the community, and helping them to develop a sense of responsibility;
- Intervention that tackles the particular factors that put the young person at risk of offending;
- Punishment proportionate to the seriousness and persistence of the offending and which strengthens protective factors;
- Encouraging reparation to victims by young offenders; and
- Reinforcing the responsibilities of parents.
The Youth Justice Board have produced a comprehensive website to help you understand how the youth justice system works, what and who is involved. Visit the Youth Justice Board website for more information about:
- Targeted prevention of youth crime and anti-social behaviour
- Bail and remand
- Information on sentences, orders and agreements
- Attending youth court
What are Cheshire West and Chester Council's obligations?
Every local authority department must consider the likely effect of all of its decisions on the need to reduce crime and disorder locally. The council also has a duty to take reasonable steps designed to encourage young people within its area not to commit offences, through the provision of services.
Who do I contact for more information?
Cheshire Youth Offending Team
St Thomas House
Whitby Road
Ellesmere Port
CH65 6TU
Tel: 01244 615300 Fax: 01244 615501