The initiatives are part of the YJB’s business plan for 2014/15, which identifies ensuring young people in the secure estate are safe as a priority area.
One of the reviews is looking at alternative ways to hold young people’s head during restraint, which a YJB spokeswoman said would be done by "comparing the physiological and psychological impact of different head-hold techniques”.
The other involves research into “non-pain inducing” restraint techniques used around the world in a range of “volatile and serious situations” not just involving young offenders, the spokeswoman added.
The YJB will then look to see if any of these alternatives could then be deployed within the secure estate for children and young people in England and Wales.
Findings from both studies will be published later this year.
This latest move comes amid criticism from prison reform campaigners about the use of excessive force when restraining young offenders.
Register Now to Continue Reading
Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's Included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here
