Published date:
The Commissioner Designate for Victims of Crime Northern Ireland has called on political leaders to place the voices and experiences of young victims at the centre of justice policy.
New findings from the 2026 Young Life and Times (YLT) Survey, show that young people have clear and strongly held views on sentencing, victims' rights and confidence in the criminal justice system. The research also highlights the profound impact that becoming a victim of crime can have on young people's perceptions of justice.
While 44% of young people believe sentences handed down to offenders are too lenient, this rises sharply to 61% among those who have been victims of crime. Three quarters of respondents (75%) see punishment as a key purpose of sentencing, while 64% believe sentencing should deter future offending. By contrast, only 34% see rehabilitation as the primary purpose of sentencing.
The survey reveals wider concerns from young victims. Nearly half of young victims disagreed that the criminal justice system in Northern Ireland is effective, while 46% said the needs of victims are not prioritised. Among young people who had experienced crime more than once, confidence in the justice system was even lower.
Commissioner Designate for Victims of Crime Northern Ireland, Geraldine Hanna said:
"These findings send a powerful message to policymakers. Young people, particularly those who have experienced crime, want a justice system that listens to victims, commands public confidence and delivers outcomes that are seen as fair. Their views cannot be overlooked.
"Young victims are telling us that they often feel unsupported and unheard. Only 32% reported their experience to police, while awareness of the Victim Charter remains extremely low. Many victims turn instead to friends and family for support, and some suffer repeated victimisation.
"As political parties prepare their manifestos for the 2027 Assembly election, they must engage directly with young people and ensure that victims' experiences inform future decisions on sentencing, victims' rights, support services and justice reform. The next generation has a stake in the future of our justice system, and their voices deserve to be heard."
The Commissioner said the findings provide a timely opportunity to strengthen victims' rights and ensure that young people's lived experiences shape the future direction of justice policy in Northern Ireland.
Results from the 2026 Young Life and Times Survey (YLTS) can be found at this link
A research paper on young people’s experiences of victimisation using the findings from the YLTS can be found at this link