Hounslow Council has approved an updated Youth Justice Plan for 2024-2027, aiming to prevent offending and re-offending among young people.
The plan, presented by Councillor Madeeha Asim, Cabinet Member for Children and Young Futures, highlights that in 2025-26, 93 children out of approximately 68,000 in Hounslow were involved with the Youth Justice Service. Notably, no custodial sentences were issued for this age group during that period. Data from the plan illustrates that Hounslow remains a low youth crime borough.
While Hounslow remains a low youth crime borough, the plan acknowledges an increase in substantive outcomes, particularly for motoring and knife-related offences. Councillor Asim stated, We have seen an increase in substantive outcomes, especially motoring offences and knife-related offences.
However, overall levels remain below pre-pandemic figures and those of other London boroughs.
The updated plan emphasizes a preventative approach, focusing on addressing the root causes of offending, strengthening restorative justice practices, and tackling disproportionality within the youth justice system. Councillor Asim explained, The youth justice plan is not simply about how we respond when a child offends. It is about breaking the cycle, identifying and tackling the causes of offending. Preventing the next offence. Preventing further victims. And where possible, giving that young child a genuine opportunity to choose a different path.
This means intervening early, addressing the underlying causes of offending.
Specific strategies to strengthen restorative justice practices are a key component of the plan. Councillor Asim added, It means strengthening restorative justice and continuing to tackle disproportionality.
The plan also aims to ensure accountability and make the best use of out-of-court resolutions where appropriate, based on the offence gravity matrix.
Councillor Asim stated, Our response must be proportionate, informed and above all evidence-based.
She added, Our responsibility, therefore, is twofold. To keep our communities safe and to prevent young people from becoming trapped in a cycle of offending. That is why prevention must remain at the heart of our approach.
The council resolved to approve and implement the updated plan, which aims to support young people away from crime and prevent future offending. The Youth Justice Service is primarily funded through the London Borough of Hounslow (LBH) general fund and a Youth Justice Board grant, with additional contributions from the London Crime Prevention Fund, the Children, Families & Youth Grant, and a probation contribution. Health, the Police, and Probation also provide support 'in kind' through staff based in the YJS. The total budget for 2026-2027 is £1,796,032, including a Turnaround Grant from the Home Office of £73,931.
Public reports pack Tuesday 15-Sep-2026 19.30 Borough Council.pdf