Children and young people in care placements are much more likely to be reported to police than non-experienced care children. This also includes for minor incidents, such as kicking a door, or smashing a glass.
Where there is no immediate threat or risk of harm, professionals should consider alternative ways for managing negative behaviours to reduce police contact and unnecessary criminalisation. Professionals told us that the following are important considerations:
Good practice protocol for London encourages professionals to consider Levels 1-3 when responding to incidents, before deciding to involve the police.
Protocol for London