NCJ Number
213698
Date Published
2006
Length
20 pages
Annotation
This paper summarizes the methodology and findings of an evaluation of a pilot program conducted in three areas of England for the purpose of preparing serious and habitual juvenile offenders for employment after release from custody.
Abstract
The program, which is provided for youth prior to their release from custody, implements a three-stage model. In the first stage, youth referred to the program are assessed to determine their needs and an appropriate plan for addressing them. Stage 2 involves preparing youth for training or employment through group or one-to-one work. Stage 3 provides support services that will enable the youth to make the transition to training or employment when released. The evaluation found that although staff reported having linked youth to education and training programs upon their release from custody, in practice this was hindered by inconsistent and inappropriate services as well as uncertainty about how to respond to youth who did not follow through on program objectives. Services in the community were insufficient in number and type. Overall, they did not target the needs of serious and habitual juvenile offenders. Communication and cooperation among sponsoring agencies was weak. The evaluation interviewed 18 professionals; 16 were not involved directly with the pilot program but were responsible for services to released juvenile offenders in the community. Two of those interviewed were on program staff. Eight youth who participated in the program were interviewed, with attention to those who had left the program and then rejoined it. A sample of community service providers were asked to assess the quality of information they received on the youths who were referred to their services upon release.