The Crime and Disorder Act 1998 provides for basic legal authority, where none exists, for the disclosure of personal information, where this is necessary or expedient to the successful implementation of the Act (section115) and promotes the principles of " restorative justice" with emphasis being placed on both the greater involvement of victims.

The information needs of the Youth Offending Team (YOT) arise from our responsibility under Section 37 of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 " to prevent offending by children and young people".

Lack of educational attainment is by the far the greatest criminogenic factor which can be linked to understanding why young people offend. Information is vital to assess both early signs of school avoidance and well-entrenched behaviours likely to result in avoiding engagement with education.

Courts require information in regard to educational progress and the YOT works to tight deadlines (laid down nationally) to provide this information as part of a holistic assessment. Following court appearances, up to date information is needed to enable the YOT and the education providers to work together to provide effective programmes to assist the young person to maintain progress. In addition, when a young person is sent to prison (Detention and Training Order), the YOT are required to send details of all educational plans, including those for release, to the prison the next working day. This is to ensure that any education provided from the prison complements the release process.

The YOT therefore needs information about the educational career, attainment and current status from education providers and support Services. To facilitate this process an information exchange proforma has been agreed and is attached.

Sue Massey

Head of Youth Justice Services

June 2001