Specialised Treatment of Young Offenders

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Specialised treatment of young offenders has evolved since 1900 due to changing social attitudes, key individuals, and political ideas.

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The treatment of young offenders has been influenced by societal changes, government policies, and reforms aimed at improving rehabilitation and reducing reoffending rates.

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The first borstal was established in Kent in 1902 for boys only.

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The purpose of the borstal was to keep young convicts entirely separate from older criminals.

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The Prevention of Crime Act of 1908 created a national system of borstals.

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Borstals emphasized education over punishment, with structured days including physical exercise, education, and practical learning skills.

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Reoffending rates in borstals were about 30% in the 1930s compared to about 60% in the present day.

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This highlights the effectiveness of the structured and educational approach of borstals in reducing reoffending rates.

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The Criminal Justice Act of 1982 abolished the borstal system.

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The abolition led to an increase in youth crime and reoffending rates, with public opinion favoring harsher punishments.

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Approved Schools were introduced in 1932 for offenders under the age of fifteen.

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These schools offered training in skills like bricklaying but faced criticism due to riots and absconding, leading to their gradual closure.

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The Criminal Justice Act of 1948 introduced reforms to the youth justice system.

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Reforms included a graduated prison system, detention centers as deterrents, and attendance centers for minor offenders.

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The Children and Young Persons Acts of 1963 and 1969 changed the treatment of young offenders.

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The 1963 Act raised the age of criminal responsibility from 8 to 10 years, while the 1969 Act favored care orders and probation over prison sentences.

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Youth custody and detention centers replaced borstals in 1983.

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These centers focused on the idea of a "short sharp shock" for offenders under 21 years old.