Youth offenders increased by 20%

Almost 40,000 youngsters were referred to or dealt with by the Scottish Children's Panel system in 2001-02.

New figures show that the number of first time youth offenders reported has increased by 20% compared to two years ago.

The latest statistics are revealed in the annual report from the Scottish Children's Reporter Administration (SCRA).

It says they show the immense challenges faced in tackling offending and child protection.

Care and protection

SCRA, however, believes that more has been done in the past two years than the previous two decades.

Key figures from the report shows that 36,820 children were dealt with by the system - 63% for their care and protection and 37% for alleged offences.

It is the highest number since the system was established in 1971.

The SCRA was set up in 1996 to administer referrals of children in the system, taking over the function from local authorities.

SCRA Principal Reporter Alan Miller said: "In its 30-year history, there has never been a time when there has been such public focus on Scotland's Children's Hearings System.

The increasing number of one-off offenders reflects wider social trends, and in particular the growing involvement of girls in offending SCRA Principal Reporter Alan Miller

"Equally the demand for a fully resourced and effective system of care and justice for Scotland's most vulnerable children has never been greater."

The report also shows lack of parental care cases have risen 247% since 1991 and now account for 22% of referrals.

The number of girls referred on alleged offence grounds is at all-time high of 3,357.

Mr Miller added: "The increasing number of one-off offenders reflects wider social trends, and in particular the growing involvement of girls in offending.

"But the reduction in repeat offenders signals growing effectiveness in what happens once children offend and the fast track pilots under way will further help us to address repeat offending."

The Reporters decide whether compulsory measures of care may be needed and refer children to hearings, which are made up of independent children's panel members who decide what further action to take.

Care and protection

Minister for Young People Cathy Jamieson said the figures covered last year and the executive had "taken action on a number of fronts since then".

She said: "I am particularly concerned by the rises in offences related to alcohol or drugs."

She added that the increase in the number of children being referred on care and protection grounds was "disheartening".