A new pilot placing trained youth workers in a PSNI custody suite has been launched to provide voluntary, consent-based support to 18–24-year-olds at the point of arrest, aiming to cut repeat offending, bolster community safety and prevent further harm.

Justice Minister Naomi Long said: "Through the Executive Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime, we are investing in practical, evidence-based interventions that reduce harm and support safer communities.

"The Custody Navigators pilot builds on learning from the successful 'Connect' navigator project operating in a number of Northern Ireland's Hospital Emergency Departments, adapting that approach carefully to a justice setting. Both Custody Navigators and the Connect project have been delivered by the Executive Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime (EPPOC).

"Custody Navigators builds on that work by focusing on early intervention at a critical point, alongside effective policing and enforcement, to help prevent further offending and reduce the number of future victims. By engaging individuals at the point of arrest, the pilot aims to connect young adults with services and support that can help stabilise their circumstances and reduce the likelihood of further involvement in the justice system."

Victoria Frame, Senior Youth Worker with the Education Authority (EA), said: "When a young person arrives in custody, they can be frightened, confused and feeling completely alone. That's exactly the moment when having someone in their corner, not as part of the system, but as someone who genuinely cares. This can make all the difference. "This is about meeting young people where they are, hearing their story and helping them find a way forward. If we can connect someone with the right support at that moment we have a real chance to help them turn things around."

Welcoming the initiative, Police Service of Northern Ireland Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson said it arrives at a pivotal post-arrest moment for young people: "We're delighted to be key partners in this important project, which has seen great success in other forms across the UK," he said.

"When someone is arrested, it can be a moment of real crisis, but also a potential opportunity to prevent further harm. The Custody Navigators Pilot Programme is focused on using that moment responsibly and safely to help reduce repeat offending and future victims.

"This won't interfere with the investigative process but, instead, will provide additional support alongside this. It's also completely optional for young people to take part in, but we hope that they'll see the benefits of the programme and engage with this."

PSNI Inspector Stephen Taylor added: "We already see the value of early intervention through established Hospital-based Navigator models. The aim of Custody Navigators is to build on that learning in a controlled, evidence-led way.

"As a pilot, it will be tested and independently evaluated, with any future decisions based on evidence and assurance."

The Custody Navigators scheme is being delivered in partnership by EPPOC, the PSNI and the Education Authority. It will begin at the PSNI Antrim Custody Suite and will operate under strict safeguarding arrangements, with clear boundaries to ensure no interference with police investigations and full respect for legal processes. Participation is entirely voluntary and the programme sits within broader EPPOC efforts to reduce harm, prevent reoffending and strengthen community safety.