The Centre for Youth & Criminal Justice (CYCJ) has published its 2014-2016 Strategy.
This sets out a vision of a Scotland where all individuals and communities are safe and flourish; and where Scottish youth justice practice, policy and research is internationally renowned and respected.
CYCJ contributes to this vision by developing, supporting and understanding youth justice in Scotland, and through seeking and sharing learning internationally.
The strategy is supported by an annual workplan, approved by the Scottish Government, which details what CYCJ will do in 2014/15 to advance the outcomes identified.
The strategy and workplan have been informed by a stakeholder research exercise, undertaken in January 2014, as well as feedback from a range of sources.
Claire Lightowler joined CYCJ as Director in December 2013 from the Institute for Research and Innovation in Social Services (IRISS), where she was Programme Manager for evidence informed practice. She says:
“We have engaged with a range of youth justice stakeholders to craft a strategy designed to advance youth justice in Scotland. On behalf of CYCJ I would like to thank all of those who have contributed to the development of the strategy. We look forward to working with you all to deliver on the priorities and outcomes identified.”
Professor Sandy Cameron CBE, independent Chair of CYCJ’s Executive Governance Group, says:
“CYCJ’s first strategy identifies three important and challenging priorities for the next three years. These are: participation and engagement of children and young people in improving youth justice; strengthening community connections, relationships, engagement and attitudes; and improving connections between the youth and adult criminal justice systems. The team will be working hard to progress these in partnership with a range of stakeholders. We will be closely monitoring our progress and reflecting on how we can continually maximise our contribution.”
CYCJ is funded by the Scottish Government and is hosted by the University of Strathclyde since April 2013.