The Young Review: Ten Years On

Published: 11th December 2025

The Young Review: Ten Years On is a policy briefing produced by Action for Race Equality in partnership with Clinks, marking a decade since the original Young Review on improving outcomes for young Black and Muslim men in the criminal justice system. The briefing revisits the Review’s core concerns about racial and religious inequality and assesses what has – and has not – changed across prisons and probation in England and Wales.  

Drawing on the latest available data from the Ministry of Justice, HMPPS and independent inspection bodies, alongside insight from specialist voluntary sector organisations and people with lived experience, the report provides an up-to-date picture of disproportionality and discrimination. It tracks progress against the Young Review’s five original recommendations, highlighting areas where limited reforms have been made, as well as the persistent gaps in accountability, monitoring and access to appropriate support.  

The briefing is intended for policymakers, practitioners, commissioners and voluntary sector organisations working across the criminal justice system. It sets out key findings, areas of concern and the wider systemic changes still needed to tackle entrenched racial and religious disparities, including stronger oversight, sustained political commitment and investment in community-led, culturally competent services.