A new project by Northumbria Police is set to help young offenders stop slipping into a life of crime in the region.

Divert from Charge - which is being piloted in the North East - will help see teenagers who have been involved in criminal being steered back into training, education and mentoring rather than entering the justice system.

Led by the force's Prosecution and Victim services team in partnership with the Violence Reduction Unit, the six local authorities and also Youth Justice services, the scheme is also being assisted by The Crown Prosecution Service.

“We know factors such as poverty, trauma, and mental health can all have an impact on a young person’s life and make them more likely to come into contact with the police," said Chief Inspector Rob Bosson on the new scheme.

“But we also know the right intervention can make all the difference. The preventative measures, including diversion schemes set up and supported by the police forces across the country, are reducing the number of children entering the criminal justice system - so why not replicate it for young adults and offer them another chance?"

The project was also supported by Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner Kim McGuinness and she added that she believes youngsters should have the chance to avoid a life of crime

“It is vitally important that we break the cycle of criminality and give young people in particular a chance to avoid a life of crime, and strong role models with lived experience of turning lives around is a key part of that," said Ms. McGuinness.