Wessex YOT scores below average in inspection

The team received a below average score in the three key areas looked at by inspectors.

Its work to safeguard children was done well just 55 per cent of the time compared to the England and Wales average of 68 per cent.

Work to minimise risk to the public was carried out well 56 per cent of the time compared to the England and Wales average of 63 per cent and the team’s work to combat reoffending was carried out well 64 per cent of the time, seven per cent below the average.

The report states, in general, work carried out by the YOT was to "an insufficient standard" and performance was "inconsistent" with some offices producing work of a far lower standard than others.

Liz Calderbank, assistant chief inspector of probation, said: "Overall, the results for Wessex YOT were lower than average, which was disappointing."

But she was optimistic the team can improve as managers responded to concerns "positively" and case managers were found to be "enthusiastic" about their work.

Calderbank also noted that the team had undergone a number of organisational changes in the past year. This included the Isle of Wight team becoming a separate YOT.