Centre for Mental Health

Youth Justice Liaison and Diversion:
How the sites work

Each site works differently. They have different set-ups and different staff teams, but they share some characteristics and issues.

Key components on YJLD and checking fidelity

The key components of the ideological YJLD model are laid out in the fidelity checklist. The checklist is particularly helpful for sites that are just setting up a system of YJLD, as it sets out the functions that need to be in place, and the roles and responsibilities of staff involved.

Through running this pilot scheme, we know that the first year of setting the YJLD model up is challenging and progress can be slow. This checklist is helpful for prioritising areas for focus during this process.

It is also a useful audit tool for monitoring fidelity with the ideological model once local systems are up and running.

For YOTs (Youth Offending Teams) that have YCAP (Youth Crime Action Plan) Triage schemes in place, this fidelity checklist demonstrates how YJLD and Triage can work together effectively. YCAP funding was given to 69 YOTs in 2008/09. Since 2008, 60 of these areas established a triage system through the placement of YOT workers in police custody suites to ensure that young people who get into trouble are given the right intervention from the start.

Further information on YCAP can be found on the DCSF website.

Download the fidelity checklist (20 KB)

YJLD pathways

Each of our pilot sites have taken a slightly different approach to the process of obtaining referrals, prioritising cases, carrying out screening and assessments and developing care pathways. For this to work well, local considerations need to be taken into account. However, the common elements of the ideological process can be seen in this flowchart.

Download the youth justice liaison and diversion flowchart (66 KB)

Employing staff

Each site has taken a different approach to organising its YJLD service and team. They have used the grant for this project to employ different staff.

Halton and Warrington

• Youth worker (screening)
• FTE CAMHS practitioner (Band 7)

Lewisham

• Band 6 nurse

Peterborough

• Band 7 nurse
• Assistant psychologist

Kensington and Chelsea

• Family therapist

South Tees

• Jobshare grade 5 nurses
• Third time band 7 CAMHS nurse

Wolverhampton

• Half-time clinical psychologist (only working school terms)
• Half-time CAMHS worker (counselling background)
• 1 day other CAMHS worker equivalent