Latest lessons in the resettlement of young people

21 August 2015

Our latest review is the most recent in a series of regular updates intended to outline the latest lessons from research, policy and practice in the resettlement of young people. It provides an overview of relevant publications and developments since Beyond Youth Custody’s last update in March 2015. Download Lessons from the literature: update July 2015 here.

The review:

• Outlines recent trends in youth imprisonment, presents the trajectories for different age groups of children and young adults, highlights gender differences in the rate of decline in the youth population and considers the implications of these trends for resettlement services and practitioners.
• Considers the findings of recently published research including a study on the psychological impact of exposure to suicide or attempted suicide among prisoners aged 16-21, an American study into sexual abuse as a criminogenic factor for girls entering custody and outcomes of art-based therapy in high security custodial settings.
• Draws attention to the current focus on safety in custodial institutions, summarising the findings of two recently published reports: the HM Inspectorate of Prisons Annual Report 14/15 and the Harris Review into self-inflicted deaths of 18-24 year olds in custody.

The review brings together in one place, current issues and developments surrounding youth justice and considers the implications of these for resettlement. There is a growing wealth of evidence about the distinct needs of young adults and what kind of approach by the criminal justice system is required to meet their needs. July’s review makes reference to the House of Commons Justice Select Committee’s major inquiry on the treatment of young adults in the criminal justice system.

Look out for Nacro’s upcoming written submission of evidence to the inquiry, which will draw upon BYC’s research on the multiple and complex needs of young people, how best to prepare them for release from custody and provide on-going support. Nacro will also be contributing as a member of the Transition to Adulthood Alliance (T2A), to maximise this opportunity to forward the young adult agenda and work towards a distinct approach.