St Helens Youth Justice Service reaccredited for National SEND Quality Lead Award
St Helens Area Partnership has once again been recognised for its strong leadership and inclusive approach, achieving the Youth Justice SEND Quality Lead certification with a Child First Commendation for the second time.
Article date: 19 January 2026
This national recognition reflects the partnership's ongoing commitment to improving outcomes for children, young people and victims with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) in the youth justice system.
Fast, Integrated Support from Specialist Staff
Specialist professionals—including a Speech and Language Therapist, NHS 0-19 Nurse, CAMHS Senior Practitioner and Barnardo's Therapist—are based within the Youth Justice Service, based in Lord Street, St Helens town centre. Weekly health panels and multi-disciplinary meetings mean cases are reviewed quickly, allowing support to be put in place within days. Victims of crime can now access the same specialist services, marking a significant improvement.
Strong Multi-Agency Working
The partnership has built a culture of open information sharing and joint planning across education, health, social care and youth justice. Involvement in panels such as Fair Access, Resettlement and MARMMs ensures consistent support that helps young people progress in education, independence and employment.
Innovative SEND Practice
New SEND resource packs and sensory tools were introduced in 2025 to support young people's individual needs. Staff complete neurodiversity screening, create communication passports and receive advanced training in trauma-informed practice, neurodevelopmental conditions and restorative approaches. Support for victims of crime has also been strengthened.
Children, Families and Victims at the Centre
Young people, families and victims help shape plans, decisions and service improvements. Youth forums provide regular feedback that informs ongoing development and ensures the Child First ethos is embedded in practice.
Passing on her congratulations to the team, Councillor Nova Charlton, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said:
"This achievement is a testament to St Helens' unwavering dedication to equality, inclusion, and partnership working. By combining specialist expertise with a holistic, child-centred ethos, the Area Partnership continues to set a national benchmark for excellence in youth justice and SEND provision.
Congratulations to the entire team whose work is transforming lives and shaping a brighter future for the most vulnerable children and young people in our borough."