But Where are the Parents? A Narrative Review of the Literature on the Experience of Parents When Their Child is in Contact with the Justice System

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ABSTRACT Contact from the police to advise a parent that their child has come into conflict with the law can be devastating. Of the 904 individuals formally referred to youth justice services in Northern Ireland during 2020–21, one-quarter were reoffences. Most will involve boys’ aged 15 plus years with numbers reflecting the wider UK prevalence. Whilst “violent” offences account for the majority, typically this means minor assaults. Distressing as this is, for a small number of parents this marks the beginning or continuation of justice system involvement with their child, especially when younger at first involvement. Diversionary and court-ordered referrals represent the majority and in almost all cases parents/a parent will have a role in such required processes. Parents may also need to navigate separate agencies within the justice system depending on the seriousness of their child’s offending. Additionally, many will deal with their child’s ongoing challenges and needs, navigating a range of other services whilst potentially coping with multiple disadvantages and exclusions. This paper first considers the context, and circumstances of such parents. Next, it analyses key findings from a narrative review of the available international literature on parents’ experiences at critical points and during key processes of their child’s involvement with youth justice systems. Evidence indicates a unique stigma is attached to their experience. Parents feel shamed and responsible whilst having to cope with traumas, stresses and isolation in their role. Opportunities for peer-led support and peer advocacy are beneficial and offer hope and unique support where this is available. Further research that includes parents is required to better understand their needs at each stage of justice system involvement, and to provide opportunities for meaningful participation in upholding rights and supporting them in putting their children first.