Young offending team wins praise

WORKERS with young offenders in Warrington have been praised for helping reduce the risk of re-offending and safeguarding children.
Halton and Warrington Youth Offending Team (HWYOT) has been praised by HM Inspector of Probation following a detailed inspection.
About a third of all cases were reviewed by inspectors, who concluded the team was performing well in key areas. These include activities to reduce the risk of offending, reduce the risk of harm and safeguarding children.
Staff were particularly praised for their ability to protect the public from harm as well as focusing on the individual needs of children and young people.
Inspectors found the team did a “very creditable” job and awarded it their highest assessment.
HWYOT, with its partners Cheshire Police and Halton and Warrington councils, has helped reduce youth crime.
There has been a 21 per cent reduction in the numbers of young people entering the criminal justice system, and a reduction in the offending rates of 33.8 per cent of those it works with. A recent survey conducted for the Cheshire Criminal Justice Board indicated that witnesses and victims had a 90 per cent satisfaction rating in the criminal justice system.
Gareth Jones, head of service at HWYOT, said the inspection was rigorous and the team had demonstrated a high quality of work.
He said: “The fact that this is provided for minimal outlay is very relevant to today’s more troubled economic climate.
“While one crime is one too many we must be realistic about what can be achieved. The fact that the re-offending rates for children and young people have fallen by nearly 34 per cent since 2005 is a major achievement for all concerned. “
Coun Sheila Woodyatt, Warrington Borough Council’s executive member for Children and Young People, said: “The commitment and dedication of this team of staff is evident in this success.
“This report shows that by effectively working together we are helping young people turn their backs on crime. This drastically improves the quality of life for the young people themselves and the communities they live in.”