If you find yourself in trouble with the police it is sometimes difficult to understand what will happen, there are lots of questions you or your family may have about what’s going to happen.

The people at the Youth Offending Team (YOT) will help you understand what’s going on when things get very confusing.

If you are arrested and have admitted the offence a number of different things can happen. The police may give you a reprimand or a final warning, however if the crime you have committed is serious enough the police may decide that you should be charged. This means that you will have to appear in Court. The Court we use is in Yate, on Kennedy Way, opposite the shopping centre. There is always someone from the YOT on duty at the Court on Youth Court day (which is usually Tuesday) and you or your carers can come and have a chat if you wish.

When you are arrested the police have to tell the YOT so we will be aware of your case. You will then be contacted by one of the team to arrange for them to visit you.

The person who contacts you will be able to explain things and answer any questions you may have.

After a Final Warning or Court sentence has been given, you will be assessed to find out what work needs to be undertaken to help you stay out of difficulty in the future. After you have been assessed you will usually be expected to take part in a programme called an Intervention, to help you stop offending. There are different programmes available, the one that is best for you, will be agreed by you with the YOT.