PANELS to deal with young offenders are to be set up in Hertfordshire from 2002.

The youth offender panels will deal with young offenders aged ten to 17 who plead guilty, have not been convicted before and have been referred by the youth court.

The panels will aim to prevent re-offending and panel members will draw up a programme with offenders and their parents. Progress will be monitored and panels will also give victims a chance to say how the crime has affected them.

Mr Kevin Jones, youth offender panel co-ordinator, said: "This is an important opportunity to nip offending in the bud at an early stage.

"Local people will take the lead in challenging young offenders to take responsibility for their actions and help them to change their behaviour for good."

Local people, from any age, background or ethnic origin, are therefore being invited by the Youth Justice Service to join the initiative dealing with young people who commit crimes.

Volunteers will sit on youth offender panels which will include two community volunteers from the local area and a professional from the local multi-agency youth offending team.

All volunteers will be given full training and can expect to spend two or three hours a week as a panel member. Travel and childcare expenses will be paid.

Councillor Robert Gordon, children, schools and families executive member, said that this was a special opportunity for people to provide their community with a rewarding and important service.

For more information, contact Mr Jones on 01992 556334 or email: kevin.jones@hertscc.gov.uk.

October 30, 2001 15:30