Danish approach cuts youth crime

Referrals to the children's reporter fell between 2005 and 2007

A Danish scheme for tackling anti-social behaviour has been credited with significant drops in youth, gang and knife crime in East Renfrewshire.

The multi-agency approach was based on early intervention and the use of "diversionary tactics".

Between 2005 and 2007, offensive weapon seizures dropped 21%, with referrals to the children's reporter down by 31%.

A Scottish Government evaluation said the approach could be a model for tackling youth crime elsewhere.

The Danish system adopted by East Renfrewshire Council brought together schools, social work professionals, police and community agencies.

It aimed to tackle anti-social behaviour early on, through projects such as such as special Duke of Edinburgh schemes.

Between 2005 and 2007, the number of people caught with offensive weapons, including knives, in East Renfrewshire fell from 122 to 96.

This evaluation gives us clear evidence that early and effective action by different professionals working together can have a massive impact Kenny MacAskill Scottish Justice Secretary

Referrals to the children's reporter dropped from 212 to 145.

Over the same period, vandalism fell from 1,846 incidents to 1,563 and there was a reduction in persistent offenders.

Scottish Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill said a similar approach could be used across the country.

"This evaluation gives us clear evidence that early and effective action by different professionals working together can have a massive impact on the lives of young people and communities," he said.

'Campus cops'

"I hope other councils can learn from this approach and help make sure it can benefit as many young people as possible."

As part of the initiative, three "campus cops" were based in secondary schools in East Renfrewshire.

They helped address issues of violence, cyber-bullying, anti-social behaviour, drugs and gang culture.

East Renfrewshire's health and social care convener, Douglas Yates, said the approach had paid dividends.

"The police may refer a young person, who is a new face in a gang, which can help to prevent a bystander from taking the next steps to becoming a perpetrator," he said.

"That's an approach that will have long term benefits for the residents of our area."