Bolton Council’s Youth Justice Service (YJS) has received a glowing report from national regulators who praised the team’s clear commitment to supporting children.
The service has been rated “Good” overall by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Probation with some areas graded as “Outstanding”.
Bolton YJS works with children aged 10 to 18 who have been sentenced by a court.
It also supports those who have come to the attention of the police because of their offending behaviour, but have not been charged, and are instead dealt with out of court.
The team provides support and intervention to reduce the risk of re-offending, helps families plan for the future, as well as providing a prevention service and supporting victims.
Inspectors highlighted the health service offer, which cares for both the physical and mental wellbeing of the young people.
The report also notes the knife crime prevention programme, commissioned by YJS across schools, which is already having a positive impact.
Work to help children who have been in custody to resettle back into society and education was given the highest possible grade of “Outstanding”.
The service was also found to be “Outstanding” for planning and partnership working.
Chief Inspector of Probation Justin Russell said:
“Staff at Bolton YJS are committed to the future of every child and have a determination to achieve the best possible outcomes for the children they are supporting.
“They undertake good quality and timely assessments, which decreases the chances of them committing further offences – keeping children safe and protecting victims.”
Bolton Council’s Executive Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Cllr Anne Galloway, said:
“This inspection report highlights the excellent work of the council and our partners in supporting children and families in Bolton.
“We need to give every child in Bolton the best possible start in life and the Youth Justice Service supports families and young people who find themselves in some very challenging circumstances.
“Our local reoffending rate is significantly lower than the national average which reflects a commitment to giving every young person the support they need.”