Scheme proven to reduce offending rates in the city

Youth reoffending in Glasgow has dropped dramatically thanks to a scheme set up four years ago.

One Glasgow was set-up to tackle the root causes of youth offending in the city.

It brings together charities, the city council, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Police Scotland, Scottish Fire and Rescue and Jobcentreplus.

Since being set up, the number of young people convicted of a crime has reduced by more than 28% and the number reconvicted within a year has fallen by almost 32%.

One of its aims is to focus on those aged under 25 who are involved in or at risk of becoming involved in the criminal justice system including those leaving prison and secure care.

A report to city councillors says young people who offend are often dealing with poverty, alcohol and drug addiction, poor family relationships, mental and physical health issues, learning, housing and employment issues.

Glen Elder, chairman of the Safe Glasgow Group said early intervention continues to be the most effective strategy when dealing with young people who are showing signs of getting involved in offending.

He added: “It has long been understood that most young people who show signs of becoming involved in offending can be quickly diverted away from crime if we engage with them early enough.

“In the last year alone there was a 24% increase in the number of young people who only needed a single referral into our Early and Effective Intervention scheme before turning things around.

“That shows if we get the right support around a young person who is straying off the path we can keep them on the straight and narrow.

“Engaging with the families and providing diversionary activities that keep the young person occupied and away from trouble are tried and tested methods that are shown to work again and again.

“As far as possible, we want to keep young people away from the formal systems and give the Children’s Panel the space to deal with more serious offending.”