Youth Offending Team Manager

I am James Pearson, Team Manager within the Violence and Vulnerability Unit.

I am currently seconded from the Essex Youth Offending Service where I had been for 10 years.  I have worked in the Criminal Justice Sector for over 20 years including roles in the Police, Probation and Youth Offending Services.  I have worked across the Midlands and now find myself in Essex.

My passion is working with young people and helping strengthen their own ability to avoid offending and live happy and joyful lives free from the circumstances that often lead them into criminal behaviours.  This passion has led me to working with the most high-risk individuals including those who are exploited in gangs.  The ability to use this passion to drive change on a county wide level is what motivated me to join the VVU.

When not at work, I enjoy anything outside and that has an element of risk!  This includes playing rugby, climbing, multi day hikes and canoeing.  My guilty pleasure is I haven’t missed an Archers omnibus for 18 years!