The number of children in custody in the UK dropped from 2,178 in 2009 to 1,918 in 2010, with decreases in both boys and girls. However, the use of custodial remand increased from 8% to 10% during that period. Over a third of children report feeling unsafe in custody and 75% of children are reconvicted within a year of leaving. The new UK government plans to abolish the Youth Justice Board and bring its functions within the Ministry of Justice, and will test local control over youth custody and payment by results models to reduce secure accommodation costs.

1. Future developments in the children’s secure estate Andrew Neilson, Assistant Director (Public Affairs and Policy)