Involving young people in planning the future of policing has gaine dnatinal recognition for Cleveland Police Authority. A report produced by the Assocation of Police Authorities, has highlighted a series of initiatives in Cleveland aimed at consulting with young people - including the production of "youth proofed" versions of the Local Policing Plan by Just 4 Youth, distributed to thousands of young people across the Force area. The report, entitled "Accountability in Action", also includes in its case studies, the system introduced by teh Cleveland Authority for regular appraisal of the performance of its own members, including the developlment of individual training plans.

Says Police Authority Chair, Councillor Dave McLuckie,"We see consulting with and involving all sections of the community in developing policing services as a very important part of our work - and that includes young people.  After all they make up 20% of our total population and, whilst only a very small proprtion of youngerts actually come to the attention of the police, they are more likely to become victims of crime and anti-social behaviour than any other group."