Custody Navigators

The Custody Navigator programme is a pioneering early intervention initiative that supports vulnerable children and young people who come into contact with the criminal justice system across Merseyside. The scheme sees trained trauma-informed youth workers based in police custody suites offering support to children from across Merseyside.

Funded by the Merseyside Violence Reduction Partnership and delivered by Sefton Council, the scheme was launched as a pilot at Copy Lane Custody Suite in Sefton in March 2025, with a simple but powerful aim: to use the time spent in custody as an opportunity to engage, support and guide young people towards a more positive future.

Working with children aged 10 to 17, Custody Navigators provide trauma-informed support at a critical point in a young person’s life. Many children entering custody are experiencing significant challenges, including trauma, exploitation, poor mental health, adverse childhood experiences and unmet support needs. Rather than focusing solely on the offence, Navigators help identify these underlying vulnerabilities and connect young people and their families with the services and support available to them.

The role begins in custody, where Navigators offer practical assistance, emotional support and a trusted adult relationship. However, their involvement does not end when a young person leaves the custody suite. With consent, Navigators continue working with them in the community through follow-up contact, home visits and ongoing engagement with education, health, social care and community services. They also play an important role in strengthening relationships between families and support agencies, helping create a network of positive support around each young person.

The pilot has already demonstrated strong results. An independent evaluation by Liverpool John Moores University found that 84% of children accepted support from a Navigator while in custody, while 65% continued engaging with community-based services after release. Around 150 young people were supported during the programme’s first year, with many presenting complex vulnerabilities, including social care involvement, disabilities and additional health needs. The findings reinforced the value of providing timely support at a moment when young people may be more open to positive intervention.

Alongside direct support, the programme has helped create a more child-centred custody experience. Dedicated trauma-informed custody cells and a breakout room were introduced at Copy Lane to reduce anxiety and help young people regulate their emotions during what can often be an overwhelming experience.

The success of the pilot has led to the programme’s expansion, with services growing across Sefton and launching at Wirral Custody Suite in 2026. Its impact has also inspired the development of the innovative Youth Court Solutions programme, introducing Court Navigators to support children, families, victims and witnesses through the youth court process. Together, these initiatives are creating a more joined-up pathway of support from first contact with the justice system through to court and beyond.

At its heart, the Custody Navigator programme is about recognising potential. By meeting young people at a time of crisis, listening without judgement and helping them access the right support, Navigators are helping to reduce vulnerability, build resilience and create opportunities for lasting positive change.