Member

The amendment would also introduce a requirement for the terms of the order to be explained in language that the child can understand. Again, this is strongly supported by evidence. Studies of diversion programmes show that children are far more likely to engage when they understand what is required of them and why. Youth offending teams that take the time to explain decisions in accessible language achieve significantly better outcomes. By contrast, many children struggle to recall or understand formal processes. As one 10 year-old boy said of a formal warning, “I forgot it straightaway”.