Youth Justice Service
1. Overview
About Us
The Youth Justice Service supports children who have been in trouble with the police or might be heading that way. We have a legal duty to provide this service in East Sussex.
Normally, a police officer or other professional, like a social worker, would put a child into contact with us. Children may also come to us from court. We work alongside different agencies to find the best way to support each child.
How we support children who offend
Court Orders
If a judge says you must work with us, we’re here to support you. We’ll listen to what you need and together we’ll agree a plan to stay safe and out of trouble.
Out of Court Resolutions (OOCRs)
If you break the law but don’t go to court, a group of professionals will talk about what should happen next. They are likely to ask you to work with us. Together we can explore the best way to support you.
Extra support to help children stay out of trouble
This could include help with school, finding activities they enjoy, or talking to someone about their worries. We will work towards keeping you safe. This reduces the risk of getting into trouble with the police again.
Help young people communicate with someone they hurt
This is called Restorative Justice. Talking about the impact of what happened can help everyone move forward.
Support children give back to the community
This is called Community Reparation. It could mean doing things like gardening, woodwork, or art.
Criminal exploitation
We also work with children who may be at risk of criminal exploitation. This means we help children who are in danger of being used by people involved in crime. For example, gang members pressuring a child to carry or sell drugs.
Our Prevention and Diversion programmes
We also offer two prevention programmes for children aged 10 to 17. They are designed to help at an early stage, before problems get worse or lead to offending.
REBOOT
Children on the REBOOT programme may not have been in any trouble before but are at risk. The programme supports them to become more confident and to learn new skills.
Turnaround
Turnaround is for children who have already had some contact with the police but haven’t been in serious trouble. We provide mentors to help them make positive changes, stay in education, and access new opportunities.What is the Youth Justice Plan?
The Youth Justice Plan is a document that describes how we fulfil our legal duties. It sets out the structure of the team and how we work with children, families, and other agencies.
Youth Justice Plan
Fairness for everyone
We treat all children with respect, no matter who they are. We work hard to make sure things are fair and everyone gets the help they need.
Volunteering
We have kind and caring adults who volunteer to help. They support children at the police station, join in meetings, and take part in community projects.
If you know someone who wants to help, they may contact us for more information.
Contact us
Eastbourne Office
10 Brodrick Close
Hampden Park
Eastbourne
BN22 9NQ
phone: 01323 463760
email: Youth Justice Service
Hastings Office
Room 19
East Sussex College Hastings
Hastings
TN34 1BA
phone: 01424 726520
email: Youth Justice Service
What a community order means
After the court gets the report, you might get a sentence called a community order.
A community order is meant to help you:
- stay away from crime and anti-social behaviour
- get support with learning or finding a job
- find ways to help your local area
- get help if you have problems with drugs or alcohol
