This paper was produced by the Scottish Government, the Scottish Prison Service (SPS) and CYCJ at the request of the Youth Justice Improvement Board to encourage reflection about children and young people in the justice system in Scotland, particularly those who are detained in custody.
It is intended for all who provide services and support to vulnerable children and young people, including those who come into contact with children and young people in the justice system. By offering insights into what we know about these children and young people and what is happening within youth justice, the paper seeks to provide a basis for discussions to inform improvement.
This paper includes revisions made in June 2018.