Young offenders who do their Duke of Edinburgh's Award are being given a second chance, improving their chances for a brighter future and increasing their resistance towards re-offending.
This is just one of the results of a ground breaking research project launched today (12th of Feb) by the DofE. The independent research has been carried out by Glyndŵr and Cardiff Universities and was commissioned by the DofE.
The research is part of the DofE's work with young offenders and looks into the impact of the DofE on young people in the secure estate.
The research focussed on direct experiences of young people and staff participating in DofE programmes. The research has revealed that after doing DofE activities young people demonstrated a greater understanding towards their victims, learnt that crime doesn't pay, believe they're less likely to re-offend and feel their future's brighter.
By doing their DofE young people were able to develop skills, gain confidence and build self-esteem - vital characteristics to help prevent those most at risk of engaging in criminal activity from offending.
One DofE participant said: "The reason why I am doing my DofE is I want to finish it and then it might give me a chance when I'm released."
HRH The Earl of Wessex at the event.
A DofE leader and prison staff member said: "Doing their DofE the young people are learning people skills and teambuilding skills. These are skills they've never used before because they've just always thought of themselves in the past."
David Hanson MP, Youth Justice Minister, said: "The Duke of Edinburgh's Award research shows that this sort of positive activity can make a huge difference to the lives of young people. The DofE embodies much of what the Government is aiming to achieve through our Youth Crime Action Plan to support young people, get the best out of them, and help them lead crime-free lives. The success of the DofE means fewer victims, a reduction in crime, and changed lives."
Frances Done, Chair of the Youth Justice Board, said: "The Youth Justice Board applauds the work of charities, such as the Duke of Edinburgh's Award, who have over the years helped hundreds of young people who have offended gain the confidence and skills to succeed in life. For youth justice to be effective, many agencies within and beyond the Criminal Justice System have to work together, with sufficient resources, for the benefit of children, young people and local communities."
Peter Westgarth, DofE Chief Executive, said: "This research has shown that doing their DofE has been life changing for the young people in the secure estate. The DofE has given some of the most vulnerable young people in society a chance to thrive through the positive structure of a DofE programme. In the future we hope that more young offenders will get the chance to do their DofE and gain a sense of personal achievement."
Rt Hon David Hanson MP at DofE's Young Offender Research launch