YJS Data
The HMIP Children in Custody 2017/18 report provides some more granular detail and shows that BAME children comprise 51% of boys in YOIs and 42% of children at STCs. Muslim children comprise 23% of boys in YOIs and 13% of children in STCs.
YJB/MOJ analysis shows that the number of black children First Time Entrants (FTEs) to the Youth Justice System has decreased since 2009 but the proportion they comprise of all child FTEs has doubled from 8% to 16%.[2]
As encouraging as it is to see a number of initiatives, programmes and research going ahead, there seems to be little evidence to show how these programmes have affected the disproportionality figures. We would like to see more captured data, data that looks at disparity in outcomes for example and would encourage the MOJ and the CJS to publish this data more widely. We know that trust and confidence is built via transparency and we would encourage the CJS embrace public scrutiny.
As with the YJS, more generally there is a lack of data to support the notion that the changes implemented by the MOJ have had the desired effect. This needs to be addressed so that scrutiny panels and external stakeholders like EQUAL can see clear evidence of change. Without sight of the data it is impossible to challenge the organisation to ‘explain or reform’.
What are the drivers of increased Muslim representation in the prison system?
We are concerned about the increase in Muslim prisoners and the lack of information about what is driving this trend. The consideration of the needs of Muslim men and women within the CJS extends further than Halal meat options and the right to attend Friday prayers; the real issue is wider and more complex.
There is no evidence provided in the update of any improvement in the gathering of consistent data across the CJS, or any analysis of current data to understand and explain the disparities. It is imperative that work is undertaken to identify the drivers of increased Muslim representation in prisons.
EQUAL recently facilitated a roundtable with several Muslim-led organisations highlighting the issues leading to criminal activities, experiences within the system and the difficulties in rehabilitating and re-engaging with society on release. These insights went beyond the prison service; there is work to be done across the whole of the CJS, including the Home Office whose remit extends to the police force. It is apparent that HMPPS, MOJ and YJB need to gather and explore feedback from within Muslim communities whilst ensuring any solutions are properly resourced.