What our Whole System Approach is
Our Whole Systems Approach provides social work services and support for young people who may come into conflict with the law.
By using a Whole Systems Approach, we aim to:
- focus on the wider needs of children and young people and their families
- help reduce offending behaviours
- divert children from criminal involvement where possible and it is safe to do so.
The approach is based on research, which suggests that better long-term outcomes for young people in trouble can be achieved by safely diverting them away from legal requirements, prosecution, and custody where possible.
Find out more about the Whole System Approach (WSA) to young offending (Scottish Government website), which is supported by the Getting it Right for Every Child (GIRFEC) framework (Scottish Government website).
What services we provide for young people
If you have been in conflict with the law persistently or significantly, our Whole Systems Approach can provide:
- interventions and intensive support
- court support
- support if you are leaving secure care or a young offenders’ institution
- support for your family.
Other services our Whole Systems Approach provides are:
- early identification through referrals made by police, schools or the public
- assessment reports to court and the children’s panel
- diversion and bail services
- risk assessment and case management services
- support for problematic drug or alcohol use
- supervision of court or children’s panel requirements
- public protection duties, including child protection, public protection and adult protection.
Who can get support
Our Whole System Approach (WSA) may support you if you are:
- under 18 years of age, or
- aged up to 20 years old, if you’re care experienced.
You may get support if you:
- are involved in offending behaviour
- are at risk of being, or are, subject to measures by the Children’s Hearing due to offending behaviour
- are at risk of being, or are, involved in the criminal justice system.
How to contact us
You or a family member can contact us for support by: