The use of pepper spray on youths aged 15 and above in youth offenders’ institutions is being permitted to address the escalating violence in such facilities. The Ministry of Justice has announced the introduction of PAVA, a synthetic pepper spray, in the youth justice system due to concerns that the rising violence may lead to fatal incidents. However, this decision is facing criticism from justice and children’s advocates who have long cautioned against using such tactics on minors.
PAVA, which temporarily incapacitates individuals, is currently authorized for use in all adult male prisons and by law enforcement agencies. Violence rates in youth facilities are significantly higher, with statistics showing 534 assault incidents in the last quarter of 2024, including 42 serious assaults. This reflects a 23% increase compared to the same period the previous year, averaging 408.5 incidents per 100 children and young people.
Governors have raised alarms about young offenders not only targeting staff but also turning on each other, resorting to extreme violence such as stamping on heads or using makeshift weapons like cutlery, screws, or weighted socks. CCTV footage from youth offender institutions (YOIs) has captured disturbing incidents of group attacks and escalating violence among inmates.
A senior source in youth custody emphasized that the use of force and restraint in these settings is a last resort measure to intervene when there is a threat to life. Concerns have been expressed by Charlie Taylor, the chief inspector of prisons, who warned against the introduction of PAVA in youth estates, cautioning that it could escalate hostility rather than reduce it.
The Ministry of Justice has stated that the deployment of PAVA in YOIs, housing boys aged 15-18, is expected to be operational by summer in three public sector facilities. The spray will only be used by trained officers in limited circumstances where there is a risk of serious violence. A review will be conducted after a 12-month trial to address any potential misuse.
Criticism of the PAVA rollout has come from various organizations, including the Prison Reform Trust and the Howard League for Penal Reform, citing concerns about disproportionate use and potential harm to relationships within the custodial system. The decision has sparked legal threats and condemnation from advocacy groups, highlighting the need to address systemic challenges in youth custody facilities.
Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood emphasized the urgency of prioritizing safety in YOIs due to unacceptable levels of violence, stating that failure to act could endanger both young people in custody and staff. The decision to allow PAVA use, though not taken lightly, is seen as a necessary step to address the crisis and ensure the safety of individuals within these institutions. Minister for Youth Justice Sir Nic Dakin emphasized the importance of safeguarding staff and youths in custody, stating that PAVA is a crucial tool to prevent serious violence and enable a focus on rehabilitation efforts.