VOLUNTEERS are needed to help stop youngsters in Worcestershire breaking the law.

Worcestershire’s Youth Offending Service, which brings together representatives from the police, probation service, health services, substance misuse services, victims’ services and the county council’s social care team, aims to prevent youngsters committing crimes.

The volunteers will make up youth offender panels that work closely with the team to help troubled youngsters. The panels play an important role, working with young people and their parents or guardian to find out why they commit crime and suggest steps to help them stop.

They talk to the youngster and where possible, the victim of the crime to agree a tailor-made contract aimed at putting things right.

The contract might include a letter of apology to the victim, removing graffiti or cleaning up estates and communities. It will also help get young people back into school and help with alcohol or drug misuse.

Area team manager Anne Mann said: “A powerful tool in helping young people avoid further offending is to confront them with the consequences of their behaviour and offering opportunities to repair the harm caused.

“Volunteers play a huge role in this process and it is vital that we get more people to come forward and utilise their skills.”

Jenny Taylor has been a volunteer for the youth offending team for seven years. She says she would recommend the role to anyone who feels capable of contributing to the welfare of these youngsters. She said: “The role gives an insight into the world of the young and the challenges in life that they face.”

For more information, visit yjb.gov.uk/YouthOffenderPanels. You can also phone Peter Heath or Steve Walters on 01905 732200.