youth justice

Youth justice is for children and young people who have broken the law. It gives them a real opportunity to change their life for the better without getting a criminal record.  We work with young people to help them face up to their mistakes, be accountable and move on to a positive future.

The family group conference is at the heart of our youth justice work, and gives young people who have offended the opportunity to face up to it, put things right, move on and be strong. Find out what happens at a family group conference

We want victims of youth crime to feel safe, supported and have their say. We encourage victims to attend the family group conference. It helps both the victim come to terms with how the crime affected them, and helps the young person to face up to what they've done. Find out more about the role of victims

Our youth justice residences provide a secure place where young people who have offended can be supported to get their life on track. Find out more about our four youth justice residences

Child, Youth and Family's new youth justice residence Te Maioha o Parekarangi was officially opened on 24 July. It will house 30 young people and will operational late in August 2010.
Find out more about the new residence and recruitment opportunities

We work with children who offend in a way that acknowledges their age, looks at any family issues that may be affecting their safety, and puts the child on track towards a positive future.
Find out how we work with Child offenders

Read more about how the Fresh Start initiatives will enable us to work more intensively with serious and persistent young offenders over a longer period of time.  With the help of this more sustained support, they have a better chance of getting their lives on track. Read more about the Fresh Start Initatives