NCJ Number
212513
Date Published
October 2004
Length
34 pages
Annotation
This supplementary guide identifies critical success factors for effective youth offending teams (YOTs).
Abstract
Designed to supplement the inter-departmental circular Establishing Youth Offending Teams, the guidance offered in this document shows local service providers how to build on the first 4 years of YOT operations by identifying the key factors of successful YOTs. The guidance offered here is based on Youth Justice Board review of the effectiveness of the YOT structure, which focused on six key areas: (1) the role and purpose of steering groups; (2) the role and status of YOY managers; (3) the size of YOTs; (4) the funding of YOTs; (5) planning and partnership issues; and (6) criminal justice structures. The advice offered in this document is based on these six areas. Following a review of the purpose of YOTs, which is to prevent offending by children and young people as well as to reduce recidivism among those who have offended, the focus turns to the management board of YOTs. Changes to the structure and function of the YOT steering group are recommended and a model protocol is offered. The status of YOT managers is reviewed and several skills of effective managers are identified, including leadership, people management, and negotiating skills. The effective size and funding of YOTs are considered before attention is turned to juvenile delinquency planning and partnership-working. Overall, the review indicated several areas of improvement for local YOTs that should improve the scope and quality of service delivery to youths and their families. Annex