The YJB has today responded to the tough new sanctions to tackle knife crime announced by the Government.
A YJB spokesperson said:
“The YJB shares the concerns of Government and the police and supports the proposal to take action against the carrying of knives in priority areas.
We agree with the police that a balanced approach should be used in deciding who should be prosecuted to help reduce the unnecessary criminalisation of young people.
Alongside sanctions there are specialist knife awareness programmes and other interventions being delivered to young people to help them change their behaviour. These will be increased and will also include the use of Parenting Orders to help ensure that families are held to account for the behaviour of their children and young people.
The YJB is working with local partners in the community to provide these programmes.”