DISCLAIMER:
This duty is currently under review and has not yet been formally signed off by the relevant professional association. The information provided is for reference only and should not be treated as final or authoritative guidance. Please verify any decisions against approved sources or seek professional advice. Updates will be published once sign-off is complete.
Simple terms explainer
Councils have a duty to prevent criminalisation and focus on care and early intervention for children under the age of 12. This means ensuring children under 12 do not receive a criminal record, working with families, schools and social services to provide support, and taking steps to safeguard their wellbeing. Any response to harmful behaviour by a child should be about protection and help, not punishment. This approach allows children to learn and grow without the stigma of a criminal conviction, while still keeping communities safe through appropriate care and supervision.
Legal status
Statutory
Duty category
Children and family services
Criminal justice
Duty type
Public impact
Social determinant of health
Social and community context
Emerging policy and legislation
2
National bodies with shared interest
Centre for Excellence for Children's Care and Protection (CELCIS)
Standards and Frameworks
2