The Scottish Parliament's Justice 2 committee said it was particularly concerned about the difficulties in engaging non-core agencies such as health and education, and that offenders were "still viewed as the responsibility of social work departments".
The report pointed out that while education was a "key factor in reducing offending", education services "do not understand the importance of their role in youth justice".
Youth justice services had to be delivered "through a multi-agency structure", it added.
The committee was also "seriously concerned" about the "adequacy" of child and adolescent mental health services.
However, it welcomed Scottish Executive guidance requiring local authorities to produce a single integrated plan for all children's services.
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
