Conwy Denbighshire Youth Justice Service (YJS) has received a positive report for making a difference to the lives of the children and young people under its supervision.
The independent inspection, by HMI Probation, acknowledges the commitment of staff and how the work benefits from the positive contributions of the partner agencies.
Inspectors looked at individual case files in three categories. The YJS scored 69% for Safeguarding (national average 64%) and scored above the national average on reducing the Risk of Harm to the community (65% against 60%).
In work to reduce the risk of reoffending by these young people, at 74% the YJS was rated well above the national average (66%) and one of the higher performing Youth Justice Teams across England and Wales inspected so far.
Emma Rathbone, Strategic Manager of the Youth Justice Service said: “Conwy Denbighshire Youth Justice Service has demonstrated the positive contribution it is making to help make the two counties safe places to live and work. The Service is working every day with some of the most difficult young people in our communities and this report shows the commitment and success of the staff of supervising and supporting them to lead productive lives.”
The inspection report highlights areas of good practice, and feedback from children and young people indicated that they felt the YJS had been very helpful to them and that services were well delivered and effective.
Emma Rathbone added: “There are some areas of work that need attention, namely the timeliness of the assessments. Making sure case work is regularly reviewed and that quality assurance by management is in place and consistent. The YJS and its Management Board are committed to addressing these recommendations and we have produced an Improvement Plan to help us achieve them.”
Cllr Phillip Evans and Cllr Dilwyn Roberts represent Conwy County Borough Council on the Youth Justice Service Management Board, Cllr Sharon Frobisher and Cllr Morfydd Jones represent Denbighshire County Council.
Cllr Philip Evans said, “This is a very positive message from the Inspection and reflects great credit on the staff of the local Youth Justice Service.”
Cllr Sharon Frobisher, said: “We are very pleased with the findings of the inspection. It shows that the service we deliver is helpful and effective, as shown in the feedback from young people.”
