Frances Done appointed Chair of the Youth Justice Board

Frances Done CBE has been appointed as the Chair of the Youth Justice Board for England and Wales and will take up position from 1 February 2008, the Secretary of State for Justice and the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families announced today.

The Youth Justice Board for England and Wales was established under the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 to monitor the operation and performance of the youth justice system and to identify and publish good practice to prevent offending by children and young people. The Board is also responsible for commissioning services for young people under 18 who are sentenced and remanded to secure facilities.

Secretary of State for Justice, Jack Straw said: "I am pleased Frances Done has accepted the position as Chair of the Youth Justice Board. Her background and experience will bring real benefits to the Youth Justice Board as it moves forward."

A graduate of Manchester University, Frances trained as a chartered accountant and worked for KPMG for nine years. She is currently honorary Chairman of The Waterways Trust, having completed nine months as Interim Director General of the Royal British Legion in October 2007.