The UK (apart from Scotland) is the only state among the 47 members of the Council of Europe that permits the indefinite retention of DNA samples taken from persons suspected of any recordable offence. The UK currently holds the DNA samples of approximately seven per cent of the population on its database, including around 24,000 samples from children aged 10 to 18. Many of these children have not been convicted, and, in some cases, have not even been charged with an offence. The retention of DNA where a child has been acquitted or the charges have been discontinued has been a matter of considerable concern.
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
