New Custody Navigators pilot aims to reduce reoffending in Northern Ireland

Naomi Long

Custody Navigators will see trained youth workers embedded in a PSNI custody suite, offering voluntary, consent-based support to people aged 18-24 at a critical moment in their lives.

Northern Ireland justice minister Naomi Long said: “Through the Executive Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime, we are investing in practical, evidence-based interventions that reduce harm and support safer communities.

“The Custody Navigators pilot builds on learning from the successful ‘Connect’ navigator project operating in a number of Northern Ireland’s Hospital Emergency Departments, adapting that approach carefully to a justice setting. Both Custody Navigators and the Connect project have been delivered by the Executive Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime (EPPOC).

“Custody Navigators builds on that work by focusing on early intervention at a critical point, alongside effective policing and enforcement, to help prevent further offending and reduce the number of future victims. By engaging individuals at the point of arrest, the pilot aims to connect young adults with services and support that can help stabilise their circumstances and reduce the likelihood of further involvement in the justice system.”

PSNI assistant chief constable Ryan Henderson said the initiative had the potential to make a positive impact upon young people during what was a critical intervention point post-arrest:

“We’re delighted to be key partners in this important project, which has seen great success in other forms across the UK,” he said.

“When someone is arrested, it can be a moment of real crisis, but also a potential opportunity to prevent further harm. The Custody Navigators Pilot Programme is focused on using that moment responsibly and safely to help reduce repeat offending and future victims.

“This won’t interfere with the investigative process but, instead, will provide additional support alongside this. It’s also completely optional for young people to take part in, but we hope that they’ll see the benefits of the programme and engage with this.”