LATEST NEWS

AYJ is deeply concerned by the Government’s decision to extend the use of PAVA incapacitant spray in children’s custody until August 2027. We are calling for an end to PAVA use and urgent reform of the youth custody estate, with investment in smaller, child-centred and trauma-informed settings.

The AYJ Annual Report and Financial Statements 2025 sets out the Alliance for Youth Justice’s work, impact, and financial review for the year 2025.

Read about how the feedback of our members, Young Advocates alumni, partners and key stakeholders has informed our new strategic approach. This strategy wasn't built in a vacuum; it is the result of deep listening, honest challenge, and a shared commitment to the children and young people we serve.

AYJ welcomes the safeguarding review led by Isabelle Trowler and the Government’s acceptance of all 34 recommendations. Now those commitments must be turned into urgent action: embed specialist safeguarding across the estate, close large YOIs and invest in smaller, community, trauma informed alternatives like Secure Children’s Homes.

AYJ Response: College of Policing consultation on updated Authorised Preofessional Practice guidance on Stop and Search.

AYJ Comment: latest HMIP inspection reports on HMYOI Parc and Feltham show, once again, that youth custody is incapable of guaranteeing children’s rights.

Following recent news coverage regarding the sentencing of children for serious sexual offences, the AYJ has issued a statement addressing the vital balance between public confidence, victim support, and effective youth justice principles.

Read our response to the Government’s youth justice white paper.

AYJ response to the Justice Select Committee inquiry into childrena nd young adults in the secure estate.

The AYJ respond to the tragic death of a child in HMYOI Feltham on 20 April 2026.