Presenting the results of its year-long Kilbrandon Now inquiry, which heard from experts across the youth justice field, NCH said the system was "under strain" because most cases referred to hearings were on care and protection grounds.
It recommended greater police involvement, the extension of schemes that allow communities to have a say in measures to address young people's criminal behaviour, and a transfer of resources away from custody and secure care to preventative and rehabilitative programmes.
Maggie Mellon, head of policy for NCH Scotland, said the system could be a world leader if it were resourced properly.
An independent research, monitoring and performance review system should be built into the hearings process and fees for the members of children's panels could be introduced, the charity suggested.
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
