Looked after children in the youth justice system: A mixed methods feasibility study

End of project summary

Main messages

Having identified that care experienced young people are a particularly vulnerable within the youth justice system, a mixed methods approach was adopted which drew upon the wealth of routine data collected both within the youth justice system and other sources, and the lived experiences of those who have had this ‘double system’ contact. The research sought to establish whether there are opportunities to provide additional support at key points during the child’s journey through the youth justice system.
 

• Rates of further offending are higher amongst those who are care experienced and/or have additional learning needs (ALN).
  • Care experienced children were twice as likely to commit further offences than their peers; more than 2.5 times more likely to breach; twice as likely to return to court and were more than 5 times more likely to spend time in custody.
  • There were high levels of ALN amongst the wider cohort. Those with ALN were 3.6 times more likely to commit further offences; 7 times more likely to be breached and 2.6 times more likely to return to court. However, there were lower than anticipated levels of neurodisabilities which is believed to be linked to the historical nature of the data.
     
• Those with double system contact typically had higher index domain scores than their peers, with the greatest differences being in relation to the Family and Personal Relationships, Living Arrangements, and Emotional and Mental Health domains. 
   
• Children looked after are almost 3 times more likely to have a change of address whilst under the supervision of the YJS. Moving increases the likelihood of further offending behaviour with domain scores relating to Neighbourhood, Motivation to Change, Physical Health, Emotional and Mental Health, and Substance Use being significant. Children can experience a high degree of uncertainty around moves.
   
• The data showed a high degree of overlap between different systems, emphasising the role which social services, health, education and other agencies have in supporting this vulnerable cohort. Additionally all the children spoke positively about the support received from voluntary organisations.
   
• Four themes emerged from the conversations with children: the failure of social service; the need for choice and for voices to be heard; culturally appropriate support and continuity of services.