No more under-18s at Polmont YOI

The Scottish Government has confirmed no more under 18s are being kept at Polmont Young Offenders Institution.

They've all been transferred into secure care settings.

It follows the death of 17-year-old Jonathan Beadle in July.

Ministers say up to £7 million worth of funding has been made available to cover the costs of placements this financial year.

Minister for The Promise Natalie Don-Innes said:

“We have been moving at pace since the Children (Care and Justice) (Scotland) Bill received Royal Assent in June to implement this reform and ensure no under 18s will be detained in a Young Offenders Institution from now on, moving to suitable settings such as secure care.

“This move will ensure children in conflict with the law are placed in safe suitable accommodation which will ensure their wellbeing and rehabilitation is at the heart of their care, while also keeping communities safe.

“I value and appreciate the work the providers will undertake to make the young people feel settled. Implementing this reform has been an enormous collaborative effort. I am very grateful to the secure accommodation providers, the Scottish Prison Service, Social Work Scotland, Crown Office, Scottish Courts and Tribunal Service and the Care Inspectorate. The success of their combined effort demonstrates our commitment to ‘Keep the Promise’, further protect children’s rights and keep communities safe.”