12th Report: Children and Young People in Custody (Part 1): Entry into the youth justice system

The government accepts in principle that prison should not be used for mental health assessments and recognizes the need for a timely pathway to transfer people to healthcare settings. However, it states that significant further work is needed before legislative change can be introduced and does not provide the requested data on children sent to custody.

The government is aware of the value of feedback loops and will explore problem-solving approaches in the youth justice system, including building an evidence base for wider use of panels. It notes that feedback loops already exist for Referral Orders and through innovative local arrangements, and is actively considering how to best support these approaches.

The government is currently considering the feasibility of extending the Registered Intermediary Scheme to vulnerable child defendants as part of a review of intermediary provision. It states that Youth Offending Teams currently support all children throughout the criminal justice process with robust guidance.

The government states that direct recruitment to the youth magistracy has been considered but not pursued due to insufficient caseload, though they will continue to explore its benefits. They are aware of peer advocates working with YOTs but do not commit to enabling an increased role in the youth court system.