We are currently working on a Pilot Study evaluation of the Divert Plus initiative. This is a Pilot Study evaluation which includes both a pilot Randomised Control Trial as well as an implementation and process evaluation. Divert Plus intervenes at the ‘teachable/learning moment’ that young people experience immediately after they enter police custody following an arrest for a violent or violence-related offence. They are provided with critical support, advice and advocacy whilst in the custody suite, giving young people an increased awareness of their legal rights and the alternatives to prosecution available through Out Of Court Disposals, including restorative justice where applicable. Having addressed the immediate needs of the young person, a package of longer-term support is offered which typically lasts for nine months. This package commonly includes Speech and Language Therapy and Mentoring.

YEF have recently published the Pilot Trial Protocol which sets out how the Pilot Study will be delivered. This has been delivered through a co-production approach between Cordis Bright, the Divert Plus team and YEF. The protocol can be downloaded below and further information is available on the YEF website.