A NEW method of dealing with young offenders has come into operation in Darlington.

Young people who plead guilty and are convicted for the first time at Darlington Youth Court can now be made subject of a referral order, based on the principles of "restorative justice".

A panel of 16 people will meet weekly in threes to work with young offenders, to make them aware of the consequences of their offending and take responsibility and make amends for their actions.

This can lead to young offenders making restoration to their victims and the wider community.

Darlington's Youth Offending and Community Safety Service is developing a number of schemes under which offenders can give something back to the community.

These include projects such as painting community buildings, gardening work and supporting voluntary organisations.

The referral orders are now the primary disposal for first- time offenders, aged ten to 17, unless the offence is so serious that it warrants a custodial sentence. It is seen as an opportunity to stop further offending at an early stage.

Orders can be imposed from three to 12 months, depending on the nature and seriousness of the crime.

The offender will be referred to a youth offending panel, made up of volunteers from the community, who will work with the young person to draw up a contract of what he or she must do during the period of the order.

The panel will investigate the cause of offending, and its impact on the victim and the community at large.

Councillor Bill Dixon, Darlington Borough Council's cabinet member responsible for social services, welcomed the new measure.

He said: "It will provide the opportunity for local people to challenge offenders to take responsibility for their crimes in such a way that it will help to change their behaviour in the future."

Anyone who would like more information about becoming involved in the panel can telephone the Youth Offending and Community Safety Service on (01325) 346881.