Morgan issued a famous parting shot at the government, portraying the increase in the criminalisation of children as "swamping" and the arresting of young offenders for minor crimes as picking off "low-hanging fruit" to meet police targets.
Upon its creation in the summer, the Department for Children, Schools and Families took joint responsibility for the YJB, bringing optimism that young offenders and those at risk of offending would be treated foremost as children rather than criminals.
Done's belated hire comes at a difficult time. Aside from a juvenile secure estate that's close to full capacity, she arrives against the backdrop of a gang and knife problem that is threatening to spiral out of control. This, combined with last week's impassioned statement from Helen Newlove on the conviction of the three drunk teenagers who so callously murdered her husband, has intensified the national mood of zero tolerance for young offenders. Radio phone-ins are saturated with calls to take a tougher stand. Politicians will inevitably be moved by the direction of public opinion.
Register Now to Continue Reading
Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's Included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here
