News
Youth Conference Service launches new leaflet for young people (11/09/2008)
The Youth Justice Agency today launched its new Youth Conference: Your Decision leaflet in conjunction with the Public Prosecution Service (PPS).The new child friendly leaflet explains the processes a young person will face when they have been referred for a diversionary youth conference by the PPS. The layout was carefully designed with young people in mind and is easy to understand.
Speaking at the launch in the Omagh offices of the PPS, Bill Lockhart, Chief Executive of the Youth Justice Agency said:
“Participating in a youth conference can be a daunting prospect for many young people. This new Youth Conference: Your Decision leaflet helps to allay fears and provides a valuable guide on the steps involved in the process, from initial referral by the Public Prosecution Service through to completion of an agreed action plan.
There were 800 referrals to diversionary youth conferences by the PPS last year and this guide will help the young people and their families to make an informed decision regarding the alleged offences. At this stage the young person can choose to accept the offer of a diversionary youth conference by admitting their guilt and participating in a process which requires them to face up to the consequences of their actions and yet allows their voice and the voice of the victim to be heard, and a resolution reached, without the need for an appearance at court.”
Assistant Director of the Public Prosecution Service Roger Davison added:
“I am delighted to be able to host the launch of this leaflet. The Youth Justice Agency make a significant contribution to youth justice and their work enables many young people to turn away from future offending. Hopefully this leaflet will add to the effectiveness of the service the Agency provides.”
A copy of the leaflet can be downloaded by clicking here
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