Has developed a new approach to working with those young people most at risk of committing further crime in the North East. The U Choose project has been set up as part of a package of restorative justice projects funded by the Northern Rock Foundation which aim to reduce re-offending. Based in Durham they will pioneer a new model of working with young offenders which focuses on their needs and aspirations as individuals. The initial phase of the action research project will involve working with inmates from Castington Young Offenders Institution six months prior to their release. An individually tailored programme will then be developed to provide support with accommodation, health needs, training and locating job opportunities following their release which will help them make their dreams a reality.

In Essex the project gives young people the opportunity to explore aspects of the youth justice system by challenging perceptions and attitudes towards offending behaviour. The 10 week programme aims to give enough information to make informed decisions resulting in the development of personal and social responsibility. The programmes are generally aimed at young people thought to be at risk of becoming involved in the juvenile justice system. Young people who attend often state that their attitudes to the police and to prison have changed and say they would not like to be in custody. Programme is led by Essex Youth Service in partnership with HM Prison Service, Essex Police, youth offending teams and magistrates.