Nacro responds to the new Government white paper on Youth Justice announced Monday 18th May 2026.
The new Youth Justice White Paper, published by Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy, sets out plans for earlier intervention, targeted support, and addressing the root causes of youth crime to create safer communities and fewer victims. The urgency is highlighted by data showing that 80% of prolific offenders began offending as children, and around two-thirds of those released from custody reoffend within a year.
Enver Solomon, Chief Executive of Nacro responds:
“Through our work supporting young people in the care system, those with special educational needs and those who are not able to progress in mainstream schools and colleges we see that too often they can be swept up in the criminal justice system and then as adults end up in a cycle of crime.Â
“We know that earlier intervention and prevention is critical as it’s far more effective; so the Government’s commitment to do more to tackle the causes of youth crime is a positive step in the right direction.
“What matters is that children are not simply punished but get the help they need to change their behaviour so they can move on with their lives to fulfil their potential and succeed.”
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