Summary
Strategic Issue 1
Rising School Exclusions and Poor Attendance as Drivers of Children Involved in Offending
What needs to be done
Commission a multi-agency education inclusion strategy that brings together schools, SEN services, youth justice, and early help to reduce exclusions and improve attendance.
Expand existing pathways to support children within education building on existing links within the “virtual school” to advocate for children at risk of exclusion and ensure their educational needs are met.
Expand trauma-informed training for school staff to help them understand and respond to behavioural issues linked to unmet needs.
Improve data sharing and accountability between education providers and youth justice to monitor attendance, attainment, and exclusion trends such as implementing the DfE guidance requiring schools to notify the Youth Justice Service of any child missing education without the school being notified.
Strategic Issue 2
Disproportionate Risk Among Vulnerable Children
What needs to be done
Develop a joint protocol between social care, education, and YJS for early identification and support of Children in Our Care (CIOC) at risk of offending.
Commission targeted interventions for CIOC, including mentoring, therapeutic support, and restorative justice approaches tailored to their experiences.
Ensure consistent access to mental health and emotional wellbeing services.
Strengthen placement stability and continuity of support, especially during transitions between care settings or into adulthood.
Strategic Issue 3
Substance Misuse as a Growing Risk Factor
What needs to be done
Continue to resource a dedicated prevention and resilience worker embedded within the YJS to engage children during “reachable moments” and provide tailored support.
Integrate substance misuse services with mental health, exploitation, and safeguarding pathways to ensure holistic care.
Expand harm reduction education in schools, youth settings, and through outreach to raise awareness and reduce stigma.
Improve engagement strategies for children reluctant to access formal treatment, including peer-led approaches and flexible service models.