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Kent Youth Offending Service is responsible for the
coordination and administration of referral orders.
Referral orders were introduced in 2002 under the Powers of
Criminal Courts (Sentencing) Act 2000.
A referral order is given to most young people (10-17 years)
following their first conviction in a youth court. The only
exceptions are if the offence is so serious that the court decides
a
custodial sentence (Detention and Training Order or Section
90/91) is absolutely necessary, or the offence is relatively minor
(i.e. a 'non-imprisonable' offence such as a traffic offence or
fare evasion), in which case an alternative such as a fine or an
absolute discharge may be given. Young people subject to this order
attend a youth offender panel comprised of volunteers from the
local community as well as YOS staff. Where possible the victim
will attend the panel as well.
At the panel the young person who committed the offence will be
given the opportunity to discuss what they did and why they did
it.
The victim of the offence will also be given the opportunity to
say how they feel about what happened and how it has affected them.
They will also be asked what they think should happen to the
offender and their views will be taken into account.
The panel will agree an 'action plan' with the young offender
that will involve some form of reparation. This may include one or
more of the following:
- writing a letter of apology
- carrying out some practical work for the victim or local
community, to help put right some of the harm done
- a special programme of support, activity and advice to help
ensure that the offender does not reoffend. This might include
dealing with problems related to school, drugs or
alcohol.
Regular reviews are undertaken during the period of the referral
order (which can be between three months and one year). Failure to
stick to the terms of the contract may result in further court
appearances.
Further information is available about referral orders on the
leaflet below.
A guide to referral orders |