Youth Offending Service

Reading's Youth Offending Service [YOS] is a multi-agency group consisting of Social Workers, Probation Officers, Police Officers and staff with health and education backgrounds.

The YOS provides a range of services required by legislation to deal speedily and effectively with young people aged 10-18 who get into trouble. The Service is overseen by a multi-agency Steering Group but also reports to the National Youth Justice Board for England and Wales.

The Service works closely with the Criminal Courts and a range of crime and disorder and children's services.

In November 2009, the Government's new youth community sentencing structure came into force. The Youth Rehabilitation Order (YRO) will offer sentencers greater flexibility, giving them a range of requirements that address a child or young person's offending and aim to respond to victims' needs as well.