Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to support greater use of early interventions for those in the criminal justice system to prevent recidivism.

The Beating Crime Plan 2021 highlighted the importance of early intervention for all young people; targeted support for those at risk of involvement in criminality; and targeted interventions for those who have started to offend.  Intervening earlier is more effective, and cheaper.

It is better for children that they do not enter the justice system at all, and that is why my department works with partners across government to support the design, delivery and evaluation of programmes which provide help earlier on. For example, the Supporting Families programme shows a return on investment of £2.28 for every £1 spent, and an 18% reduction in juvenile convictions and 38% reduction in juvenile prison sentences.

To further build up the evidence base, and support innovative projects targeted at children on the cusp of the justice system, we are also providing £5m for 200 voluntary and community projects. These will engage children at risk of involvement in crime through mentoring and sport activities, with the aim of reducing crime in local communities.