YJB chief Lin Hinnigan to step down

??Hinnigan, who joined the YJB in April 2013, said she feels it is an "appropriate time" to step down and allow someone new to take over.?

In a statement published on the YJB website, Hinnigan said: "I joined the YJB because of my strong belief in the youth justice system and its ability to transform the lives of young people.

"I still feel passionately about this, and am very proud of what the organisation has, and continues to achieve.

"Youth justice, and the YJB, has been subject to constant change and that is set to continue with the youth justice review, so there is never likely to be a time of stability which is a good moment for a chief executive to go. ??

"But our work contributing to the review itself is now entering its final phases and once Charlie Taylor has reported we will enter into a different phase - a period of transition, which I expect to continue for some years.

??"I have therefore decided that this is an appropriate time for me to hand over the reins as chief executive to someone who can provide continued leadership throughout the next phase."

During Hinnigan's tenure as YJB chief, the number of young people in custody has halved to around 900. Over the same period, the YJB's budget has also had to absorb "significant" budget cuts in the last three years.

Lord McNally, chairman of the YJB, said Hinnigan will continue in post until "an appropriate time in the summer".

He will make an announcement about her replacement "in due course".

A spokeswoman for the YJB said they "don't know" what Hinnigan is going to do next.

??Justice Minister Andrew Selous added: "Lin has led the YJB with vision and determination and I am grateful for all her hard work.

"Throughout this time Lin's dedication has never wavered and her commitment to the young people in her care is evident. I wish her all the best for the future."