Paragraph 8

Every authority shall take reasonable steps designed—

(a)

to reduce the need to bring—

(i)

proceedings for care or supervision orders with respect to children within the authority's area;

(ii)

criminal proceedings against such children;

(iii)

any family or other proceedings with respect to such children which might lead to them being placed in the authority's care; or

(iv)

proceedings under the inherent jurisdiction of the High Court with respect to children;

(b)

to encourage children within the authority's area not to commit criminal offences; and

(c)

to avoid the need for children within the authority's area to be placed in secure accommodation.