Recommendation SP1: Single agency for high-risk children
From The Southport Inquiry Report: Phase 1, published 13 April 2026.
Recommendation
Phase 2 should consider what single agency or structure should be appointed or established to record, monitor and co-ordinate interventions for children and young people who present a high risk of serious harm. This must be matched with cultural change so that agencies are prepared to own and manage risk appropriately not just refer it on to others.
In brief (written by this site)
The Inquiry asked Phase 2 to consider establishing a single agency for high-risk children. In an April 2026 press release, Stephanie Roberts-Bibby, Chief Executive of the Youth Justice Board, noted the recommendation for a lead agency to be considered in Phase 2 (Stephanie Roberts-Bibby, Apr 2026). She stated in April 2026 that the board fully supports clearer ownership of risk, adding that this must be reinforced by professional curiosity and responsibility (Stephanie Roberts-Bibby, Apr 2026).
Sources
AI-generated summary of the record on this page, checked by a second model and automatic checks, 17 Oct 2026. The record below is the sources' own words.
Government response
This recommendation is for Phase 2 of the Inquiry to consider, so no government response to it is expected.
Delivery
This recommendation is for Phase 2 of the Inquiry to consider. It is not addressed to the government or another body, so there is no delivery to report.
What other bodies have found
In their own words. These do not change the delivery statement above.
Youth Justice Board for England and Wales (13 April 2026)
One of the recommendations is for a lead agency to be considered as Phase 2 of the Inquiry. We fully support clearer ownership of risk but this must be reinforced by professional curiosity and responsibility.
From: YJB response to the publication of the Southport Inquiry report, Stephanie Roberts-Bibby, Chief Executive, Youth Justice Board
Site note: Stephanie Roberts-Bibby, Chief Executive of the Youth Justice Board, on the day the Phase 1 report was published. Recommendation 1 is for Phase 2 of the Inquiry to consider; the Board is not its addressee, so the row is marked noted.
Responsible bodies
Themes and tags
Who has spoken
- Youth Justice Board for England and Wales
Finding