Diversionary work
Out of court resolutions (previously referred to as out of court disposals) are classed as diversionary work. These resolutions are an alternative to prosecution and used for low level or first-time offences. They allow children to be diverted away from unnecessary criminalisation and stigma, whilst being supported to address the underlying issues. If a child admits to committing an offence and is offered an out of court resolution, it means they do not have to go to court.
There are different types of resolutions, with different rules, and some have requirements which must be followed. In Nottinghamshire, the police can issue Community Resolutions, Outcome 20s, Outcome 21s and Outcome 22s. However, in most cases, they will work closely with the youth justice service before issuing a resolution. The youth justice service arranges the out of court resolution panel, which is attended by the police, a restorative justice practitioner, children’s social care and other relevant agencies such as the NHS.
Prior to the panel, a youth justice worker will meet with the child and their parents or carers to talk about what has happened and find out more about them. They will explore what support is needed for the child to stay out of trouble and how they can reach their potential. They will also gather information from other professionals and complete an assessment which will be discussed at the panel. The child’s voice is central to the assessment, as are the views of parents or carers.
A decision is made at the panel about the most suitable resolution for the child. The resolution will be proportionate to the offence committed, whilst balancing the child’s circumstances and the views of the victim who has been impacted.
The out of court resolution panel can issue:
- Outcome 20
- Outcome 21
- Outcome 22
- Community Resolution
- Deferred Caution
- Youth Caution
- Youth Conditional Caution
- Deferred Prosecutions
Following panel, the youth justice worker will work with the child and their parents/carers to help them understand the resolution they have been offered and what is involved. Support will be offered every step of the way, including:
- Education, employment and training work
- Drugs and alcohol work
- Support with emotional and mental health needs
- Constructive use of time through hobbies and pastimes
- Staying safe online or in the community
- Increasing understanding of how crime affects victims and communities
- Knowledge and understanding about the law
- Reparation – making amends for any harm which was caused
