All young people under 18 have now been transferred from young offenders institutions such as HMYOI Polmont to more child-friendly secure units. This decision follows the suicides of young people while in detention and new law. Until recently, nine youths were held at Polmont Young Offenders Institution, but the last child was moved to a secure unit.

The Scottish Prison Service called this a “landmark day” as children will no longer be in their care, a change that could free up about 70 prison places. Recent suicides at Polmont, including those of 16-year-old William Brown (also known as William Lindsay) and 17-year-old Jonathan Beadle, highlighted the dangers of having minors in such environments.

Scotland’s chief inspector of prisons, Wendy Sinclair-Gieben, previously criticized the practice as a violation of human rights, especially for those not yet convicted. The Scottish government, committed to ending this practice, passed the Children (Care and Justice) (Scotland) Bill, which received Royal Assent in 2022.

Minister Natalie Don-Innes emphasized that the new law ensures children in conflict with the law are placed in safe, suitable accommodations that prioritize their well-being and rehabilitation. Campaigners like Fiona Dyer, director of the Children and Young People’s Centre for Justice, welcomed the change, noting that prison environments are harmful to vulnerable youth and advocating for a more child-centered approach.

The new system involves four secure care centers in Scotland, housing young people in small groups under the care of trained staff. This reform aims to provide both behavioural support and the nurturing environment necessary for young people to thrive.

The deaths at Polmont, including that of Jonathan Beadle in July, underscore the need for this shift. Jonathan was jailed after pleading guilty to serious charges, highlighting the complexities of youth justice. The tragic cases of William Brown and others have driven calls for reform and greater care for vulnerable children. Youth worker Niall Cahill praised the new law, stressing that all young people deserve care and support, regardless of their past actions, and hoped these changes reflect lessons learned from previous failures.