Commenting on HMI Probation’s report on the experiences of black and mixed heritage boys in the youth justice system, CEO of the Race Equality Foundation, Jabeer Butt OBE said: “The evidence on the lack of early intervention to address multiple and complex needs of black and mixed race heritage boys now in the youth justice system is deeply dispiriting. But perhaps more shocking is that 10 years after the Youth Justice Board committed itself to identify and spread local effective practice, this report notes a lack of impetus to improve and deliver better outcomes for black and mixed race boys.
“The Inspectorate’s conclusion that it is yet to see progress in ‘casework being delivered’, should be a clarion call for urgent and sustained action in the provision of youth offender services. At the same time, the Government needs to invest in and improve early intervention, as well as work to end the school-to-prison pipeline, which sees disproportionate exclusions from schools leading to over-representation in the youth justice system.”
ENDS
Notes to editors
1. About the Race Equality Foundation
The Race Equality Foundation is a national charity tackling racial inequality across public services to improve the lives of Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities. Its areas of work cover health and care, housing, children and families, employment, communities and more.
2. Press contact: Shiryn Sayani, Communications & Campaigns Manager: comms@racefound.org.uk / 07593 454182
