Restorative youth detention: The way forward?
Restorative youth detention: The way forward?
Criminology &Criminal Justice, Ahead of Print.
This article explores a range of normative, conceptual and practical issues that arise from utilising restorative justice with young people in custody in England and Wales, and considers the appropriateness of doing so within the coercive and oppressive space that prison occupies. It is suggested that, while there are some clear benefits for victims and offenders, there is a need to proceed with caution. This is because children who are incarcerated are particularly vulnerable in addition to simply their age owing to the resilience required to survive a penal system that can be isolating and dangerous, as well as their often complex needs, and difficult life histories. This is also because there is a need to ensure that the process adheres to the ethos of restorative justice, and does not divert attention from the current problems within the youth secure estate or the pressing need to continue reducing child imprisonment.
This article explores a range of normative, conceptual and practical issues that arise from utilising restorative justice with young people in custody in England and Wales, and considers the appropriateness of doing so within the coercive and oppressive space that prison occupies. It is suggested that, while there are some clear benefits for victims and offenders, there is a need to proceed with caution. This is because children who are incarcerated are particularly vulnerable in addition to simply their age owing to the resilience required to survive a penal system that can be isolating and dangerous, as well as their often complex needs, and difficult life histories. This is also because there is a need to ensure that the process adheres to the ethos of restorative justice, and does not divert attention from the current problems within the youth secure estate or the pressing need to continue reducing child imprisonment.
Katherine Doolin