Secure Youth Estate Violence 2024-03-26
2024-03-26
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The number of children in custody has fallen by nearly 70% over the last decade, with 71% detained for violent offences. Assaults on staff increased by 9% between July and September 2023 compared to the previous year.
What steps is the Minister taking to reduce violence in the secure youth estate given there were 320 assaults on staff, including 24 serious ones, a 9% increase year-on-year?
The current approach is working but more needs to be done. The government believes that its methods for tackling violence and conflict resolution are appropriate and effective.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific plan and timeline not provided
We Believe Our Approach Is Right
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
A lack of progress in improving young people's access to education and increased violence on the prison estate prompted the decision to change Cookham Wood youth offender institution into an adult prison.
In light of increased violence, when will the Minister ensure that the practice of keeping young people in their cells ends as they are transferred to other institutions?
The decision to close Cookham Wood was due to specific local factors. Young people will be individually assessed and transferred to institutions best suited for their needs.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific measures not provided
Due To Local Factors
Individually Assessed
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
Cookham Wood youth offender institution is being converted into an adult prison, highlighting challenges with young people's access to education and increasing violence.
In the context of rising violence and extreme self-harm, does the Minister believe that restraining a girl with complex needs and then stripping her was acceptable? What alternative provisions are there besides the Keppel unit at Wetherby YOI?
The reported incident was inaccurate; no strip search occurred. Officers acted under a blanket to protect life in imminent danger.
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Assessment & feedback
Acceptability of the practice not addressed
Inaccurate Reporting
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
Violence is a challenge across the youth estate, including cases of extreme self-harm and inappropriate handling of young offenders.
Does the Minister believe that restraining a girl with complex needs and then stripping her was acceptable? What alternative provision does he have other than the Keppel unit?
The reported incident inaccurately described a strip search; officers protected the individual's modesty under a blanket. The practice was incorrect.
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Assessment & feedback
Acceptability not clarified, alternatives unspecified
Inaccurate Reporting
Response accuracy