Information for Victims of Youth Crime in Doncaster
The 1998 Crime and Disorder Act made significant changes to the Youth justice system. Youth Offending Services were set up throughout the country. The services are made of partnerships between Police, Local Authority Services, Probation, Education, Health and Voluntary Services.
The aim of Doncaster Youth Offending Service is to prevent and reduce offending by young people in our area, and we believe the best way to do this is to ensure that young people who commit crimes are encouraged to take responsibility for the harm and loss they have caused their victims, and make amends to their victim and/or the community.
“How could this help me”
The crime you have experienced can be extremely upsetting and we want to do all we can to help you come to terms with the distress and loss you may have suffered.
In our experience victims of crime often want to know the answers to questions like:
- Why did it happen to me?
- Does the young person realise the harm caused?
- Is it going to happen again?
- Why did the young person do this?
- What did their family think of their behaviour?
Letting the young person know how you feel about what they did will help them consider the effects it has had on you and face up to the consequences of their behaviour, now and in the future.
Being given the choice to be involved in this process could play a part in helping you come to terms with the harm you may have suffered.
Victims of crime who decide to take part will have their needs and wishes taken into account and will be fully supported in any choices they make. Participation in the process is completely voluntary.
“How can I be involved?”
There are a number of ways in which you as a victim may choose to take part in the process:
- Receive a letter of apology from the young person
- Be able to attend a victim/offender panel or conference, where you would have the opportunity to ask questions of the young person and let them know how the offence has affected you and others
- If you do not wish to meet with the offender, your views can be represented by the Victim Liaison Officer, who will support and keep you informed throughout your involvement with the Youth Offending Service
- You may wish to consider the type of work the young person should carry out on your behalf or for the local community
“What will happen next?”
A dedicated worker, who works with victims of crime, may contact you to let you know what is happening and discuss any involvement you may wish to have.
