The NYA welcomes Youth Crime Action Plan

16 Jul 2008
The National Youth Agency (NYA) welcomes the Youth Crime Action Plan 2008 which was published today. Fiona Blacke, Chief Executive, says, ‘It is a far-reaching document and we believe it strikes the right balance between punishment, prevention and intervention for those most at risk. At a time when the public rhetoric about young people verges on the hysterical, this is a more measured view.‘

‘It recognises the importance of tackling quickly and decisively the most violent crime but it also acknowledges the longer-term challenges we face in turning round some of the most difficult and troubled young people.’

The NYA believes proper investment in youth facilities and in youth workers is one of the most effective long-term measures in reducing youth crime. The report cites projects where the skill and experience of professional youth workers has made a real difference in reducing conflict between gangs. Youth workers are also able to work in mentoring young people, running challenging activity programmes and supporting young people to put forward their own views about the challenges they face.

As well as investing in qualified staff, local authorities also need to consider how they are responding to their duty to provide positive activities. The government is investing over £100 million in new youth facilities in the next few years. The NYA sees this as an excellent opportunity for local authorities to talk to young people and find out what kind of services and facilities they would like.

Youth sometimes feels like a period of life to be got through rather than enjoyed and unfortunately the actions of a few don’t help the wider public perception of the young. The NYA remains committed to working with government, local authorities and community organisations to improve the life chances of all young people irrespective of their background or their involvement in crime.

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