Courts will be given new powers to tackle young offenders under proposals published in a consultation document by the Home Secretary.
Juveniles could either face a reparation order to make amends to their victims or the community; or an action plan order which would place them on a three month intensive supervision programme. And parents of children on orders could be fined if they failed to keep them off the streets after 9pm or condoned truancy. They could also be ordered to undergo training in parenthood.
Paul Cavadino, principal officer of the National Association for the Care and Resettlement of Offenders, said he strongly supported the basic principles of the reparation and action plan orders, which would be easier for courts to implement than the parental responsibility order. The new orders will be included in the Crime and Disorder Bill, which is due early next year.
