- The number of 18-20-year-olds receiving life or indeterminate sentences in England and Wales has almost doubled in a decade, rising from 30 in 2014 to 50 in 2024.
- A report by the Prison Reform Trust's Building Futures program reveals that 6% of young adults in prison are now serving life sentences, up from just 2% ten years prior.
- The study, based on testimony from 41 young male prisoners, highlights that long-term sentences profoundly impact mental health, identity development, and the ability to envision a meaningful future.
- Prison experts and the report advocate for specialized support for young adults, noting many have histories of trauma, grew up in care, or were excluded from schools.
- Recommendations to the Ministry of Justice include implementing a dedicated prison policy for long-term prisoners, enhancing staff training, and improving access to education and training, including removing restrictions on higher education funding.
IN FULL
