Policing in Wales and Criminal Justice partners welcome the publication of guidance to support diversion and out-of-court resolutions for children
Policing in Wales and Criminal Justice partners have welcomed the publication of new Welsh Government guidance on diversion and out-of-court resolutions for children, marking a significant step forward in supporting a child-first approach to youth justice.
The guidance sets out clear principles and expectations for agencies across Wales, reinforcing a shared commitment to preventing the unnecessary criminalisation of children and ensuring that responses to offending behaviour are proportionate, timely and focused on long-term positive outcomes.
The Principles and Guidelines have been produced for the Pre-Court diversion workstream of the Youth Justice Blueprint for Wales, in collaboration with Policing in Wales, the Youth Justice Board, YOT Managers Cymru, Gwent Office of the Police and Crime and Commissioner, and South Wales Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner.
By placing children’s needs, welfare and development at the centre of decision-making, the guidance provides a consistent national framework to help partners,including police forces, local authorities, youth justice services and other key agencies,work together more effectively.
Policing in Wales partners have collectively endorsed the guidance and will use it as a foundation for strengthening collaboration and embedding best practice across all areas. The framework will support professionals to make informed, child-centred decisions that address the underlying causes of behaviour, reduce reoffending and promote safer communities.
The guidance also emphasises the importance of early intervention, partnership working and the meaningful involvement of children and their families in decisions that affect them.
Dafydd Llywelyn, Police and Crime Commissioner for Dyfed-Powys, who is Co-Chair of the All Wales Steering Group on Out of Court Resolutions for Children said:
"We strongly welcome this important guidance, which reflects our shared ambition across Wales to put children first in everything we do. By focusing on diversion and early intervention, we can reduce the risk of children becoming entrenched in the criminal justice system and instead support them to achieve positive futures.
“This framework provides clarity and consistency for all criminal justice agencies, helping us to work together more effectively and ensure that responses to children are fair, proportionate and centred on their needs. As Police and Crime Commissioners, we are committed to supporting its implementation and ensuring that our services continue to deliver better outcomes for children, families and communities across Wales."
Policing in Wales partners will continue to work closely with the Welsh Government and Criminal Justice agencies to ensure the guidance is implemented effectively and delivers meaningful impact for children and communities.
Further information:
Principles and guidelines for diversion and out of court resolutions for children [HTML] | GOV.WALES
Article Date: 15/04/2026