Young female offenders in context: adversity, mental health and risk in a community forensic sample

Purpose This study aims to investigate the clinical, developmental and psychosocial characteristics of young female offenders referred to a community-based Forensic Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service. The objective is to inform trauma-informed, gender-responsive and developmentally sensitive approaches within forensic and youth justice settings, particularly in community contexts where this population remains under-researched. Design/methodology/approach A retrospective analysis was conducted using anonymised outcome monitoring data from 69 females aged 10–17 years, referred between 2018 and 2024. Data were extracted from clinical records and professional consultations and included adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), demographic information, mental health and neurodevelopmental profiles and offending behaviour. Descriptive statistics and non-parametric tests were used to assess prevalence and associations. Findings The cohort demonstrated a high prevalence of early adversity (mean ACE score = 5.21), with emotional neglect, domestic abuse and household mental illness most frequently reported. Mental health difficulties were common, including self-harm (59.4%) and suicidal ideation or attempts (52.2%). Neurodevelopmental conditions, particularly attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorder and learning difficulties, were also prominent. Offending behaviour was diverse, with violent offences reported in 69.6% of cases, sexually harmful behaviour in 33.3% and over half the cohort identified as being at risk of exploitation. A significant positive association was found between ACEs and the range of offending behaviours. Practical implications These findings highlight the importance of integrated, trauma-informed approaches and early identification strategies within forensic mental health services, to support targeted intervention, risk management and diversion from custody for justice-involved girls. The results also support the use of routine ACE screening and neurodevelopmental assessment, as well as improved collaboration between youth justice, mental health and social care professionals. Social implications The study reinforces the need to reframe societal understandings of female youth offending by recognising the intersection of trauma, systemic inequality and developmental vulnerability. It challenges reductionist or gender-stereotyped views of female offenders and underscores the blurred boundaries between victimisation and offending. These findings have implications for justice policy, public discourse and the design of equitable and inclusive services. Originality/value This study contributes novel insights into an under-researched population, providing ecologically valid data from a real-world clinical setting. It highlights the need for comprehensive, gender-informed assessment and intervention frameworks that integrate developmental, mental health and forensic risk perspectives. While research has increasingly explored women in custodial contexts, far less attention has been given to young females in community forensic services. This study therefore extends current knowledge and supports early, preventative intervention frameworks.