Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, how many (a) young offenders institutions, (b) secure training centres and (c) secure children’s homes do not have a formal written procedure for the identification, assessment and care planning of looked-after children.

All children in the youth secure estate have their needs and risks identified, addressed and managed in line with the requirements set out in ‘Standards for children in the youth justice system’ (https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/780504/Standards_for_children_in_youth_justice_services_2019.doc.pdf). These standards apply to all secure establishments providers, including health commissioners and providers. All youth secure establishments must also follow the relevant case management guidance relating to LAC. Therefore, having or not having ‘formal written procedures’ does not in itself dictate the quality of care for LAC.

Children detained under criminal justice legislation in secure establishments are subject to the Children Act 1989. The responsible authority continues to have responsibilities towards them in the same way as they would to other children in need – recognising that the court, by sentencing the child, has determined where he/she will live. The duties and expectations placed on all local authorities in relation to effectively caring for looked-after children and care leavers, including where they are detained in the secure estate, are set out in the relevant legislation and accompanying statutory guidance.