Youth Justice Service (YJS)
Croydon's Youth Justice Service is currently struggling with long waits for neurodivergent assessments for young people in the justice system.
Croydon Council's Scrutiny Children & Young People Sub-Committee heard in October 2026 that the Youth Justice Service (YJS) faces challenges accessing timely neurodivergent assessments for young people. This issue is linked to long waiting lists for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS), which Elaine Jones, a co-opted member of the sub-committee, noted has been a consistent concern.
The Youth Justice Service (YJS) works with young people who have offended or are at risk of offending. Emma Carter, Service Manager of the local Youth Justice Service, explained the difficulties in securing these assessments, which are largely managed by NHS England and Public Health.
Key facts
- Croydon's Youth Justice Service struggles to access timely neurodivergent assessments. Source
- Long waits for neurodivergent assessments were discussed at Croydon Council's Scrutiny Children & Young People Sub-Committee in October 2026. Source
- Elaine Jones, a co-opted member of the sub-committee, raised concerns about CAMHS waiting lists. Source
- Emma Carter is the Service Manager of the local Youth Justice Service. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on, with background from Wikipedia. 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 21 October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.