Disproportionality
Redbridge Council is currently addressing persistent disproportionality for minority youth within its justice system.
Redbridge Council's Children and Young People Committee reviewed its Youth Justice Strategic Plan in September 2026, which aims to tackle disproportionality within the system. A report to the committee said that disproportionality persists, particularly for children from black and mixed heritage backgrounds, with mixed heritage children remaining the most overrepresented group among first-time entrants.
The Redbridge plan also highlighted a record low of 40 first-time entrants to the youth justice system in 2025-26, and a 42% reduction in serious violence offences over three years. In Croydon, the council's Cabinet approved a new Youth Justice Plan in September 2026, aiming to reduce re-offending rates among young people aged 10 to 18.
The Croydon Youth Justice Plan, a statutory requirement linked to Youth Justice Grant funding, was recommended for approval by Full Council in December 2026. The plan noted that Croydon's proven re-offending rate for children supported by the Youth Justice Service was 29.1%, lower than London and national averages.
Key facts
- Redbridge Council's Children and Young People Committee heard in September 2026 that disproportionality persists for black and mixed heritage children. Source
- Mixed heritage children remain the most overrepresented group among first-time entrants to the youth justice system in Redbridge. Source
- Redbridge's Youth Justice Strategic Plan highlighted a record low of 40 first-time entrants in 2025-26. Source
- Croydon Council's Cabinet approved a new Youth Justice Plan in September 2026. Source
- Croydon's Youth Justice Plan was recommended for approval by Full Council in December 2026. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 1 October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.