Lynda Gibbs KC (Hon), Dean of the ICCA, and Wendy Showell-Nicholas, specialist in trauma-informed practice and a psychotherapist, have contributed to the latest edition of Fighting Knife Crime. Their piece is said to capture the central message of the edition: ‘Understanding the Child before Judging the Behaviour’. The article highlights how a child entering a courtroom brings with them all that has gone before; trauma, bereavement, neglect, neurodivergence, poverty, exclusion, and abuse. Understanding this does not mean excusing harmful behaviour. The question is whether accountability without understanding is likely to bring meaningful change. They argue that all those who encounter these children and young people should remain curious and cognisant of the path that led them to where they are.

Click here to read the latest edition of Fighting Knife Crime.