Source · Select Committees · Justice Committee
Recommendation 15
15
Paragraph: 81
We recommend that the MoJ and Youth Custody Service set out how they have responded...
Recommendation
We recommend that the MoJ and Youth Custody Service set out how they have responded to the crisis in the context of the children’s estate and how the specific needs of children have been considered. It is also unclear why there is such a disparity in the regimes provided across the youth estate; the MoJ and Youth Custody Service should set out what is being done to address disparities and ensure that all children in the estate receive equivalent provision.
Paragraph Reference:
81
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
Following publication of the National Framework for Prison Regimes and Services on 2 June, the YCS has developed Exceptional Delivery Models (EDMs), including developing ‘YCS-specific’ EDMs (specifically Education and P.E, Advocacy, the Custody Support Plan, Interventions and Resettlement). Face-to-face education and visits re-commenced from week commencing 13 July at our public sector Young Offender Institutions (YOIs). From the outset of the pandemic, there was a focus within the Youth Custody Service (YCS) on delivering essential activities such as regular phone calls (with young people having been allocated additional free phone credits), access to showers and education materials, and time in the fresh air, as well as activities children can undertake in small groups or in their rooms, including workouts and access to entertainment. Within the Youth Secure Estate, the delivery of education remains a particular priority as we seek to mirror the position taken for vulnerable children in the community where it is possible to do so. There remains a strong desire to provide a high amount of time out of room for children during this time, whilst ensuring that the safety of children and staff remains paramount.