Youth justice – bail and court

What happens when you’ve been arrested?

If you’re arrested, you will usually be taken to a police station and held in custody in a cell.

When the police suspect someone has committed a crime, they will interview them as part of their investigation.

Bail

Being on bail means that you have been arrested or charged with a crime and can leave the police station or court, but you must return / go to court on a specific day at a specific time.

If you do not attend court you can be arrested.

Bail intensive supervision and support (ISS)

Intensive supervision and support is an alternative to custody.

This means you will complete your sentence in the community instead of going into custody and will receive intensive support from the youth offending team (YOT).

An ISS bail programme offers 25 hours a week, 7 days a week, during your time on bail. This will be supported by an electronically monitored curfew.

Pre-sentence reports

A pre-sentence report (PSR) is requested by a magistrate or judge to help them decide the most suitable sentence to impose after a young person has pleaded or been found guilty of an offence.

The magistrate or judge is not required to follow the recommendations of the report but they will consider it very carefully when deciding upon the sentence.

In order for the YOT to complete a PSR, you will meet with a YOT worker at least twice, including one visit at your home, and will be expected to complete a self-assessment. A self-assessment allows the YOT to have a better understanding of your thoughts and feelings at this time.

Going to court

Compliments and complaints

Bail and court

Youth offending team

If you would like to make a compliment, complaint or comment about the youth offending team please get in touch with the service manager. Email your full name and contact details to: yot@hackney.gov.uk marking it for the attention of the service manager.

If you are not satisfied, you can also make a formal children’s social care complaint.

Page updated on: 29 September 2021

Hackney Youth Offending Team

Address

275 Mare Street
London
E8 1GR

Telephone

Opening times

  • Mon to Fri: 9am-5pm (except bank holidays)