On 5 October, Criminal Justice Board (CJB) Wales published two separate reports: its Annual Report and its Anti-Racism Report.
Phil Bowen, Chair of the Youth Justice Board, said:
I am delighted to see the publication of the Criminal Justice Board Wales Annual Report and Anti-Racism Report. Both reports highlight the value of strong partnership working in building a fairer, more effective justice system for the people of Wales.
The progress made over the past year in preventing and reducing reoffending, improving the experience and safety of victims, strengthening prevention and early intervention, and advancing anti-racism reflects priorities that are fundamental to the YJB’s vision for the youth justice system. In particular, the continued commitment to listening to and learning from lived experience is essential if we are to achieve lasting and meaningful change.
At the YJB, we are committed to supporting youth justice services across Wales. One of our priorities is reducing persistent disparities, which we do through by gathering local data, providing practical support, and working with services to address it through their youth justice plans. It is encouraging to see this commitment shared across Wales, with Heads of Service establishing a disproportionality steering group to help drive meaningful change.
I look forward to seeing this important work continue and to working alongside partners across Wales to improve outcomes for children, victims and communities.