Why are young people getting involved in serious crime?

Recent figures from the Metropolitan Police show a worrying trend: a growing number of children aged just 10 to 14 are being suspected of violent crimes.

This includes knife offences and other serious incidents. At Morton’s Solicitors, we take a closer look at this trend, what’s driving it, and why legal support for young people is more important than ever.

Child Crime: A Rising Concern

According to the data, 7,512 children aged 10 to 14 were suspected of violent crime in London during 2023 – a 38% increase from 2020. While the total number of offences involving under-25s is still below pre-pandemic levels, the proportion of crimes committed by children in this younger age group is clearly rising.

Lib Peck, Director of London’s Violence Reduction Unit (VRU), called the findings “disturbing”, and they reflect a national trend that goes beyond the capital. Although this issue is often most visible in London, serious youth crime is something that communities across the UK—including Greater Manchester and the North West—are grappling with.

What’s Causing This Shift?

Experts point to a number of key contributing factors:

• School exclusions and suspensions – Excluded pupils are far more likely to be drawn into criminal behaviour.
• Poor language and communication skills – Children unable to express emotions or resolve conflict verbally may lash out physically.
• Special educational needs – Young people with undiagnosed or unsupported learning difficulties are disproportionately represented in the youth justice system.
• Exposure to social media and online harm – Platforms that glamorise violence or promote harmful behaviours can have a powerful influence.

Can Early Intervention Make a Difference?

In London, the VRU has launched targeted support in primary schools, focusing on developing children’s communication and emotional intelligence. This includes oracy programmes aimed at helping pupils resolve conflicts with words rather than aggression. Schools involved in these programmes have reported improved behaviour, reduced exclusions, and better peer relationships.

Headteachers and researchers alike agree: the earlier we support children, the better their outcomes. By addressing root causes like poor communication and unmet educational needs, we may reduce the number of young people entering the justice system in the first place.

What Does This Mean for Parents and Communities?

Parents are often the first to notice behavioural changes. It’s crucial they have access to support networks, schools, and youth services. However, if a child does get caught up in the criminal justice system, having the right legal representation is essential—not just to protect their rights, but to ensure their circumstances are properly understood by the courts.

The Importance of Specialist Legal Advice

Youth crime cases must be handled with sensitivity and expertise. A child’s future may depend on decisions made in the early stages of an investigation. At Mortons Solicitors, our experienced team specialises in youth defence, offering compassionate and expert legal support to young people and their families across Stockport and Greater Manchester.

How Can We Help?

If your child has been accused of a serious offence, or you need advice about any aspect of youth criminal defence, we’re here to support you. Our dedicated team has years of experience in handling sensitive cases involving children and teenagers.

Find out more about youth crime legal representation or contact Mortons Solicitors today for confidential legal advice.