§ The Earl of Listowelasked Her Majesty's Government:
What steps they are taking to develop a strategy to address the needs and risks associated with children who sexually abuse; and whether they will publish a timetable for action. [HL2239]
§ The Minister of State, Home Office (Lord Falconer of Thoroton)This Government are already taking a number of steps to address the needs and risks associated with young people who sexually abuse. The Home Office-sponsored Youth Justice Board issued in November effective practice guidance to youth offending teams to help to ensure that current work with young sexual abusers is as effective as possible. We are also funding a study into the characteristics of children and young people who sexually abuse. This is due to report in December 2005. In addition, we have established a two-year pilot developing assessment tools and programmes in three juvenile establishments for 15 to 21 year olds; and the Youth Justice Board is currently mapping services for young sexual abusers nationwide in conjunction with the National Organisation for the Treatment of Abusers and the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children. This is due to report in the autumn.
The Home Office and Youth Justice Board have also set up an interdepartmental working group with the Department of Health and the Department for Education and Skills to look at the whole issue of young people who sexually abuse. We will consider the further timetable when this has completed its work and in the light of what resources will be required.