Research

A Strategic Approach to Young Sex Offenders

SAYSO has grown out of TDI’s interest in the problems surrounding young sex offenders. Following preliminary research we began work on a strategic approach to the prevention and management of sexual offending by young people.

SAYSO currently focuses on three areas; individuals who have committed serious offences; work with schools and other groups to address current trends of inappropriate sexual behaviour and work around children and young people who demonstrate risky sexual behaviour.

Backstories is the first research project to be developed through the SAYSO programme. It examines the case histories of a small cohort of young offenders whose offences were of a serious sexual nature. We are analysing the intervention histories of these individuals prior to the index offence being committed, where concerns about behaviour had previously been raised. We hope this research will inform future intervention policy for the young people at risk of offending.

European interoperability – cross border checking

Recent high-profile cases have highlighted inadequacies in the current provision for effectively checking the criminal records of citizens from the EU member states seeking employment in the UK. Current controls, based around certificates of good behaviour, are insufficient.

We are working towards the establishment of an information-sharing network between employers, criminal justice bodies and the consular network. We are developing easy-to-use information for practitioners to help them understand the differences in legislation relating to criminal records in different parts of the EU, resources for the consular network, and help for employers in obtaining the best possible disclosure from potential employees.