Inquiry to examine police-youth relations

The all-party parliamentary group for children (APPGC) has launched the inquiry ahead of potential tougher sanctions against young offenders proposed in the Antisocial and Behaviour Bill.

Proposals in the bill include the use of custodial sentences of up to five years as a sanction for a breach of new criminal behaviour orders, which will replace antisocial behaviour orders.

The group is concerned that the measures in the bill could lead to more young people entering the criminal justice system.

Other issues to be addressed in the inquiry include how much public attitude affects the relationship between police and young people.

Recent high-profile cases of child abuse, such as in Oxford, will be looked at. The inquiry hopes to assess how effectively police are dealing with complaints of abuse made by older children.

The group will also examine whether there are any improvements in police procedure that could better protect children and reduce the number of vulnerable young people who are criminalised.

APPGC chair Baroness Massey of Darwen said: “The APPGC is deeply concerned that some groups of children are at high risk of entering the criminal justice system. For example, we know that a disproportionate number of children in custody have been looked after, are from black and minority ethnic communities, or have mental health problems or learning difficulties.

“We are launching this inquiry to establish how the issue can be addressed by improving the way in which police interact with children and young people.”

As part of their inquiry the group is appealing for views from children and young people about their experiences with the police. Evidence from children’s and youth justice professionals is also being sought.

A report with recommendations is expected to be produced by June 2014.