North Lanarkshire Council justice social work conference has Rights and Relationships theme

North Lanarkshire Council justice social work conference had a compelling theme centered around Rights and Relationships. The conference, which took place annually, aimed to gather all parties involved in youth justice to rethink their approaches, especially within North Lanarkshire. The event delved into significant issues affecting the justice system’s most vulnerable individuals, particularly focusing on the Children (Care & Justice) Act 2024. This act prioritises children’s rights by advocating for care-based solutions instead of imprisonment, with the goal of providing young people with supportive environments rather than incarceration.

Expert insights on the Children (Care & Justice) Act 2024 were provided by the Children and Young People’s Centre for Justice (CYCJ), shedding light on the importance of trauma-informed practices that respect children’s rights and safeguard their well-being. The conference highlighted the dedication of social workers and partner agencies in North Lanarkshire, emphasising the crucial role they play in promoting positive change for young people entangled in the justice system. By cultivating environments that uphold rights and nurture relationships, Scotland’s Youth Justice community aims to establish a more equitable and compassionate approach to youth justice.

The event featured various speakers, including author Graeme Armstrong, who shared his personal experiences growing up in North Lanarkshire, offering insights into youth violence and the necessity for empathetic responses. Attendees were encouraged to challenge traditional notions of justice and deepen their understanding of the underlying challenges faced by young people. The conference also included creative contributions, such as a musical performance by Noel Quinn and a presentation by the Creative Change Collective, showcasing a young person’s story through the creative arts to highlight the human aspect of justice.

A key takeaway from the conference was the importance of diverting young people away from the justice system through collaborative, trauma-informed approaches. This involves establishing systems that uphold children’s rights, provide meaningful alternatives to punitive measures, and actively involve young individuals in their rehabilitation journeys. The event culminated in a panel discussion involving various stakeholders addressing critical issues facing young people in conflict with the law, with a focus on enhancing cooperation among social workers, legal professionals, and partner agencies for the betterment of youth justice practices.