The number of children held in custodial establishments has declined sharply in recent years – in 2021/22, the average under-18 population was 447, compared with 939 in 2015/16.
Most of those in youth custody are boys aged 17, young people from ethnic minorities are overrepresented and a significant proportion are care experienced or being looked after by a local authority.
Research shows that children in custodial establishments have experienced adverse childhood experiences which has resulted in trauma, including extra familial harm that often results in exploitation.
Children in custody are held in one of three settings: secure training centres (STCs), young offender institutions (YOIs) or secure children's homes (SCHs).
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
