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Wirral's Youth Justice Service has won a regional award, after youth reoffending in the borough fell by almost 17% in two years.
The service was recognised at the North West IMPACT Awards for its Child First approach, which treats young people who offend as children rather than offenders.
The award also recognised its innovative practice and its part in wider reform of the system, Wirral Council says.
The service's latest annual report showed youth reoffending in Wirral has fallen by almost 17% over the past two years.
The number of young people entering the youth justice system for the first time is also below regional and national averages.
The service was rated Good by HM Inspectorate of Probation in 2025, and has national Youth Justice SEND Quality Lead status.
Its work includes:
- Peer mentoring, where community volunteers build trusted relationships with young people
- The No Comment Pathway, an alternative to prosecution for some children
- Operation Inclusion, which works with children already known to the service and their families
- In the Zone, a programme run with Merseyside Police that more than 4,000 pupils have taken part in
- The government's Turnaround Programme, which has helped more than 300 young people at risk of getting involved in anti-social behaviour
Mark Evans, service manager, said: "We are incredibly proud to receive this recognition. It reflects the dedication, passion and professionalism of our staff, volunteers and partners."
Cllr Stephen Bennett, who chairs the council's children, young people and education committee, said the award was "testament to the fantastic work of our Youth Justice Service".
Elsewhere, The Hive Youth Zone recently welcomed its 20,000th member.
