Children seeing extreme violence while held needlessly in jail, says England and Wales watchdog
A report by the Howard League for Penal Reform reveals that children held in custody are exposed to extreme violence, including stabbings. Many of these young detainees are remanded unnecessarily, often being bailed or moved shortly after. The findings highlight significant concerns regarding the treatment and safety of vulnerable children in the youth justice system.
- ▪Almost 100 children each year are remanded to custody only to be bailed or moved shortly after.
- ▪Many children experience extreme violence while in custody, leading to fear and confusion.
- ▪The report emphasizes that remanding children should be a last resort, as it can be profoundly damaging to their development.
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The report shows young detainees on remand are being exposed to a ‘terrifying and profoundly damaging’ environment, the Howard League for Penal Reform said. Photograph: Andrew Aitchison/Corbis/Getty ImagesView image in fullscreenThe report shows young detainees on remand are being exposed to a ‘terrifying and profoundly damaging’ environment, the Howard League for Penal Reform said. Photograph: Andrew Aitchison/Corbis/Getty ImagesYouth justiceChildren seeing extreme violence while held needlessly in jail, says England and Wales watchdogPrisons inspectorate finds almost 100 children each year are remanded to custody only to be bailed or moved Rajeev Syal Home affairs editorWed 27 May 2026 02.00 EDTLast modified on Wed 27 May 2026 02.01 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleChildren are…
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