This is to announce the launch of the Youth Justice Charter.

The charter sets out the standards that a child can expect from the people and organisations they might meet in the youth justice system. It doesn’t add to or extend existing rights and standards. It simply sets these out together, in one place, in clear language. 

It’s organised into five parts, each representing a stage in the youth justice ‘journey’ that a child might be involved with – the police, the courts, youth justice services, custody and resettlement.  

It’s been developed by the Ministry of Justice working closely with a wide range of stakeholders, including the YJB. The Association of YOT mangers and YOT Managers Cymru also provided feedback during the drafting stage.   

The website was designed with the help of young people from two national charities. It hosts multiple products including a short animation, easy-read versions and a Welsh version. There are also posters that can be used to promote the charter to children. Please arrange for the ‘Youth Justice Services’ one to be printed and displayed in offices.  

The YJB and the Ministry of Justice are encouraging all those working with children to raise awareness of the charter and familiarise themselves with the standards.  

As we know, a child’s interaction with the youth justice system is at a time when they are vulnerable and their engagement and trust in a fair process can make all the difference to what they do next. If a child knows what to expect, and who is responsible for what, they are more likely to trust and engage with the process.  

Thank you.