Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 13
13
Acknowledged
The average number of children in custody has fallen by 73% in the last decade,...
Conclusion
The average number of children in custody has fallen by 73% in the last decade, from 2,040 in 2010–11, to 560 in 2020–21, reflecting a long-term decline in the number of recorded youth offences.38 The Ministry told us that the reduction has a lot to do with diversionary activities, whereby children may be diverted from formally entering the youth justice system, such as through community resolutions.39 With such a small population, HMPPS told us it is persistently difficult to provide enough local provision for children. It described how it already has places available in YOIs and SCHs, as well as Oakhill STC and the secure school coming online. Its challenge is being able to match children to the right provision, in the right part of the country.40 HMPPS told us that it provides financial support so families can visit.41 But location is important so children can be close to their families.42
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges the youth custody population fell substantially, forecasts suggest it will increase, and HMPPS considers there will be sufficient capacity across the estate.
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
3.2 The youth custody population (including 18-year-olds in the youth estate) fell substantially from 3,208 in 2007-08 to 855 in 2019-20, driven by changes in police targets and a movement away from imposing custodial sentences on children for minor offences. The population fell to historical lows during the COVID-19 pandemic, standing at 502 in June 2022. Forecasts suggest that it will increase in future years, though there is high uncertainty around forecasting the youth custody population. Given the population has not yet shown signs of increasing as originally predicted, it is unlikely these forecasts will materialise as quickly as previously estimated. The youth estate currently has a maximum capacity of 1,037 places (852 Young Offender Institution places, 80 Secure Training Centre places, 105 Secure Children Home places) and as such, HMPPS considers there will be sufficient capacity across the estate.