An Inter-agency Assessment Framework for Young People Who Sexually Abuse: Principles, Processes and Practicalities

Abstract

This article draws on the work undertaken by the authors on behalf of an inter-agency Pathway project across Greater Manchester known as AIM (Assessment, Intervention and Management). The project was funded by the National Youth Justice Board to develop policies, and practices and services for young people who sexually abuse others. We will describe in particular the development of a multi-disciplinary assessment framework. The model produced is intended for use as part of an initial assessment after either a child protection investigation under Section 47 of the 1989 Children Act and/or a criminal investigation has established that a young person (10-18 years) has committed a sexual assault. The framework has been implemented throughout the Greater Manchester area since May 2001. Its development included extensive consultation with local practitioners, both to increase their commitment to the eventual model and to demonstrate the philosophy of partnership and engagement that we considered being central to an effective assessment process with young people and their families.