Potential offenders will meet with victims of crime

The youth diversion scheme will operate in conjunction with other agencies by working with young offenders and those who are at risk of committing crimes.

Young people will be encouraged to understand the consequences of their behaviour by meeting with victims of crime.

Forty seven youth diversion officers and 28 criminal justice managers will liaise with parents and other agencies in implementing the scheme, which is being unveiled on Monday.

Superintendent Bobby Hunniford of the PSNI Community Safety Unit said it was easy for children and young people to be influenced by others, particularly their peer group.

The Youth Diversion Scheme provides an opportunity for young people to take responsibility for their behaviour Arty O'Neil Youth Justice Agency

"The police are here to prevent crime as well as solve it," he said.

"This scheme is designed to help both victims and offenders, and, most importantly, to help prevent young people offending or reoffending."

Arty O'Neil of the Youth Justice Agency said the police played a vital role in youth crime prevention.

"The Youth Diversion Scheme provides an opportunity for young people to take responsibility for their behaviour and make changes to their lifestyle without fear of being labelled for life," he said.

Almost 12,000 young people were referred to police youth diversion officers between April and September so far this year.

More than 6,300 potential offenders were given warnings, 1,556 were given official cautions and 671 young people were prosecuted.

Many of the cases related to theft, property damage and public order offences.

The Youth Justice Agency replaced the existing Juvenile Justice Board in March this year.

The agency was tasked with implementing the recommendations of the Criminal Justice Review, which contained proposals for reforming the youth justice system in Northern Ireland.