CYP Now - Youth custody overhaul raises risk of a 'fragmented system'

The government is to strip the Youth Justice Board of most of its youth custody duties. Former chief John Drew says while there is merit to the plan, it raises concerns over resettlement work and ensuring a child focus.

Major changes are in store for the youth justice system after the recent announcement by Justice Secretary Elizabeth Truss that the Youth Justice Board (YJB) will no longer be responsible for commissioning and overseeing the youth secure estate, with a new body being established to take on the role.

In line with recommendations made by the Youth Custody Improvement Board, which was chaired by Alan Wood and set up to explore how the youth secure estate could be improved, a new Youth Custody Service will be established to run youth custody as a "distinct arm" of HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) - the new government quango replacing the National Offender Management Service.

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