Statement of Service
New programme launched to cut youth crime
A pioneering project dedicated to making London safer by helping young offenders turn their backs on crime has been launched by Justice Secretary Jack Straw and the Mayor of London Boris Johnson.
The Heron Unit is the UK's first dedicated resettlement unit for 15 to 17 year olds who have demonstrated a commitment to changing their criminal pasts.
It is a key part of the Mayor's youth plan 'Time for Action' and helps to deliver the government's £100 million Youth Crime Action Plan. The establishment of Heron has been delivered through the London Criminal Justice Board, a partnership which brings together criminal justice agencies in London and the Mayor's office.
Offenders referred to the Heron Unit, located inside Feltham Young Offenders Institution, will be placed on a programme designed to tackle their offending behaviour. This includes one-to-one help in finding somewhere to live; getting important life skills and finding a job. They will be prepared to make a positive contribution to their local communities when they leave custody.
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November 9, 2009
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