The function of the YJB, created under the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 as a non-executive, non-departmental public body, is to monitor the operation of the youth justice system; identify, disseminate and promote good practice; and provide advice to the Home Secretary. The YJB is also responsible for contracting with and monitoring providers of secure custody for juveniles. YJB's work to date has involved four policy and practice developments. First, a prevention agenda was developed at the core of the YJB's legislative and service strategy. Second, habitual juvenile offenders were targeted in the development of intensive and structured interventions called Intensive Supervision and Surveillance Programs. Third, improvements were made in the quality of programs for juveniles in secure custody, particularly in education services. Fourth, strategies for effective practice and quality assurance were introduced. The Crime and Disorder Act 1998 also requires local authorities to establish Youth Offending Teams (YOT's). The YJB collects data from YOT's quarterly in building a database on juvenile offenders and interventions. The YJB supports the work of YOT's through training programs, national standards, and procedures for evaluations. YJB regional managers who are working with YOT's and secure facilities must ensure that performance complies with effective-practice guidance, that performance targets are met, and that national standards and guidelines are followed. 1 figure and 16 references