They show that, although incidences of self-harm and of assaults on staff nudged down from 2006 to 2007, these falls were wiped out by increases in 2008. Moreover, the 2008 figures are provisional, so the final numbers are expected to rise a little. While the child custodial population has remained steady, our youth prisons are becoming no less violent. If anything, they are becoming more so.
The overall figures mask some sharp fluctuations within each of the institutions, with some achieving big reductions in instances of self-harm and assault, but others a severe deterioration. The figures give lie to the myth that youth prisons are holiday camps.
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
