Young offenders are three times more likely to have a mental health problem than other young people, a report suggests.

A study by the Mental Health Foundation has found many suffer from psychiatric disorders, anxiety and depression.

The authors said their findings highlighted the need for the government to improve mental health services if it hoped to reduce crime.

It is very difficult for someone to change their behaviour while they have substantial mental health problems

Ruth Lesirge, Mental Health Foundation

At present, these services are limited. Few young offenders are currently treated for mental health problems.

But the report found that many young offenders suffer from a wide range of psychological problems.

These range from difficulty concentrating or sticking to specific tasks to controlling their behaviour.

Better services

The authors called for new procedures to ensure those people with mental health problems are identified and given the help they need.

They criticised the failure of the English justice system to automatically screen young offenders for mental illnesses.

The report also hit out at the lack of cooperation between the NHS, social services and those looking after young offenders.

It called for better services for young people who offend.

Ruth Lesirge, chief executive of the Mental Health Foundation, said young offenders will fail to be rehabilitated unless their health needs are addressed.

"While young offenders seem to be a focus for retribution in society, many have enduring mental health needs which are simply not being met," she said.

"If this situation is not addressed, not only will these young people continue to be let down by services, they are also more likely to continue offending.

"It is very difficult for someone to change their behaviour while they have substantial mental health problems."