Expansion of PAVA ignites debate on youth custody force and restraint

The UK government’s consideration of expanding the use of PAVA spray – a chemical irritant legally used in adult prisons – into child establishments has ignited a contentious debate.

Aside from the scrutiny for its significant ethical and safety concerns, there’s a plausible argument and uncomfortable truth to be addressed here. Staff in these facilities are ill equipped and lack the necessary support and risk reduction measures to keep themselves safe – and therefore safeguard the vulnerable children in their care.

Adult establishments

The Howard League for Penal Reform argues that the use of PAVA spray in adult prisons has not achieved its intended goal of reducing violence but has instead damaged critical relationships between staff and inmates. Pilot assessments of PAVA use have revealed issues such as misuse and improper application and have raised concerns about its extension to environments with children who frequently experience physical interventions. The chief inspector of prisons Charlie Taylor has criticised the current system for not adequately teaching conflict and aggression management; a problem that some say could worsen with the introduction of PAVA.