Fewer youngsters are re-offending

There was a 5.3% reduction in detected youth crime

The number of persistent young offenders is falling in Perth and Kinross, according to a report.

The figures from the Perth and Kinross Youth Justice Partnership (PKYJP) suggest there was a 10.7% reduction in 2006/2007, meeting government targets.

However the statistics indicate an increase in the percentage of incidents attributable to persistent offenders.

The report also states that there has been a 5.3% reduction in youth crime overall and a 16% drop in vandalisms.

The PKYJP is made up of the council, police, the children's reporter administration, the procurator fiscal, Tayside Fire and Rescue and voluntary groups.

'Successful Year'

The annual report states that improvements and better co-ordination are needed when it comes to information use and sharing.

Concerns were also raised that the needs of young people with alcohol or mental health problems were not being properly met.

However strengths in partnership working, staff training, and self-evaluation were highlighted.

The partnership said it has developed a focus on early intervention with young people who offend, while at the same time trying to deal with persistent offending and anti-social behaviour.

Community Safety Convener, Councillor Willie Robertson, said: "The work of the PKYJP is very important in delivering results based on nationally formed youth justice policy.

"The partnership has enjoyed another very successful year, especially in the very important area of reducing persistent offending.

"Improvements can be seen across the board and I would like to congratulate everyone involved."