But where are the parents? A narrative review of the literature on the experience of parents when their child is in contact with the justice system

The ‘knock on the door’ or call from the police to advise a parent that their child has come into conflict with the law can be devastating. Of the 904 individuals formally referred to youth justice services in Northern Ireland during the year 2020-21, one-quarter were reoffences, most involving boys aged 15 plus years. Whilst ‘violent’ offences account for the majority, in reality this typically means minor assaults. Distressing as this is, for a minority of parents this marks the beginning, or continuation of justice system involvement with their child, especially when younger at first involvement. Diversionary and court ordered referrals represent most referrals, and in almost all cases parents/a parent will have a role in such required processes. These parents may also need to navigate separate agencies of the justice system depending on the level and seriousness of their child’s offending (Police Service of Northern Ireland, Court Service). Additionally, many will deal with their child’s ongoing challenges and needs, navigating a range of other services whilst potentially coping with multiple disadvantages and exclusions. This paper firstly explores the context, and circumstances for such parents in Northern Ireland. Next it critically considers key findings from a narrative review of the available international literature on parents experiences at critical points, and during key processes, of their child’s involvement with youth justices systems. Evidence indicates a unique stigma is attached to their experience, with parents feeling shamed, responsiblised and ‘guilty by association’ yet having to cope with the traumas, and everyday challenges of the reality of this lonely role. The article concludes that a genuinely trauma informed, child first justice system must seek to actively understand parents’ needs, meaningfully collaborate with them, and provide opportunity for full participation, in upholding all rights and supporting them to meet their children’s best interests.