Children’s commissioner criticises proposed use of pepper spray in YOIs
Fiona Simpson
Friday, September 29, 2023
The children’s commissioner for England has raised concerns over the proposed use of pepper spray on children in young offender institutions (YOIs).
Use of the irritant spray is reportedly being considered by government as a solution to increasing incidents of violence in five YOIs across England and Wales.
According to the Guardian, the use of Pava (pelargonic acid vanillylamide) spray, a synthetic form of pepper spray, is under discussion by ministers.
In a blog published on her website, Dame Rachel de Souza states: “I am extremely concerned about the possible introduction of an incapacitant spray (pelargonic acid vanillylamide or PAVA) into under-18 YOIs or any other part of the children’s secure estate. I have written to the Youth Custody Service to register my concerns.”
De Souza adds that she thinks “all YOIs should be closed”.
“In the meantime, I want a children’s estate that is safe both for the children who live in it and the adults who work in it. I believe the introduction of PAVA would be entirely counterproductive,” she says.
“It seems likely to increase tensions, while infringing on the rights of children without addressing the underlying causes of violence and conflict within the children’s estate. It is unacceptable for children to experience violence, or to live constantly under the threat of violence, as a solution to the failures of the service of which they are in the care.”
In his most recent report, Charlie Taylor, chief inspector of prisons, found that “levels of violence remained much too high” in almost all YOIs and secure training centres (STCs) in England and Wales.
Children’s rights campaigners have also raised concerns about the use of PAVA spray, as well as prison dogs and flash bombs, as a way of managing disorder in the youth custody estate following the publication of new guidance on the use of restraint in YOIs and STCs.
The Ministry of Justice and Youth Custody Service have been contacted for comment.
