A report by the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman into the death of 15-year-old Liam McManus, found hanging in his cell at Lancaster Farms YOI in November 2007, was completed in August last year but publication was delayed due to legal issues.
It identifies a series of "systemic failures", finding:
The report, which adds to concerns aired at an inquest held last year, revealed that Liam had a history of self-harm and drug and alcohol abuse.
He had spent time in custody earlier in the year at Thorn Cross YOI but was transferred to Red Bank secure children’s home.
The move was primarily because he was deemed unsuitable for the open unit due to an outstanding criminal charge, although his ability to cope in a prison environment was also questioned.
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