Surprise fall in youths entering justice system

BUT YOUNG CUSTODY RATES ARE STILL HIGHEST OF ALL CORE CITIES

- By JOE LOCKER Local democracy reporter

COUNCILLORS say they are surprised that the number of children and young people entering the youth justice system is falling.

According to Nottingham City Council figures, there has been a 50% reduction in the past year alone, which the authority calls “significant progress”.

But councillors remain concerned following a confrontation between two groups outside the Council House in Old Market Square on Sunday, November 16.

Further fears stem from the fact that custody rates involving children and young people remain the highest of all core cities - including Birmingham, Leeds, Liverpool and Manchester.

Speaking at a meeting on Tuesday, Councillor Kevin Clarke (Ind) said: “As councillors we see the evidence of what is happening as a result of the services we have taken away. If we did get more money then this should be something we should prioritise.

“I am quite surprised at the reduction given that... do we not have the highest custody rate of all core cities? We've all seen what has been happening in the city centre and it is very concerning when children who are 14, youths, whatever you want to call them, are being arrested for machetes.