If you are under 21 and facing custody in the UK, the system you enter is different from adult prison in important ways. Young offenders are held in Youth Offending Institutions (YOIs) or dedicated young people's wings within adult prisons. Understanding how youth custody works will help you navigate the experience more safely, including where the case involves knife possession.
Youth Offending Institutions (YOIs)
YOIs are establishments specifically for young people aged 15 to 21. They are distinct from adult prisons, with a greater emphasis on education, rehabilitation, and safeguarding. Staff in YOIs receive specialist training in working with young people.
The main YOIs in England include HMYOI Feltham, HMYOI Wetherby, HMYOI Cookham Wood, HMYOI Rochester, and HMYOI Brinsford. Some young offenders are also held in dedicated young adult units within larger prisons.
Education: A Legal Requirement
Unlike adult prisoners, young offenders have a legal right to education. The YOI must provide at least 15 hours of education per week, covering:
If you have not completed your GCSEs, you will be expected to continue studying. If you have, you can access further education, apprenticeships, or vocational courses.
Safeguarding and Child Protection
Young offenders are legally children until they turn 18, and the prison has duties under safeguarding legislation. This means:
If you feel unsafe, bullied, or at risk from other prisoners or staff, you can speak to the safeguarding officer, a member of the safer custody team, or contact the Howard League for Penal Reform.
Differences from Adult Prisons
Youth custody differs from adult prison in several key respects:
Turning 18 in Custody
When you turn 18, your status changes. You are no longer legally a child, and you may be transferred to an adult establishment. The timing of this transfer depends on:
If you are close to your 18th birthday, discuss the transfer process with your offender supervisor so you know what to expect.
Mental Health and Vulnerability
Young offenders have higher rates of mental health problems, learning difficulties, and traumatic backgrounds than adult prisoners. Many have been through the care system or have experienced abuse or neglect.
Every YOI has mental health services, but the quality varies. If you have a diagnosed condition, bring documentation to court. If you suspect you have a learning difficulty or mental health problem, ask for an assessment.
Leaving Youth Custody
Release planning for young offenders is more intensive than for adults. The Youth Justice Board and local youth offending teams are involved in resettlement planning, including:
If you are released on licence, your youth offending team supervisor will monitor your progress in the community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I be held in an adult prison if I am under 21?
Young people aged 18 to 21 can be held in adult prisons, particularly Category C training prisons. Those under 18 must be held in YOIs or secure children's homes.
Do young offenders wear prison uniforms?
Most YOIs require young offenders to wear prison-issue tracksuits or uniforms, though this varies by establishment.
Can my parents visit me in a YOI?
Yes. Parents and guardians have visiting rights. YOIs often have extended visiting hours and family support services.
What happens if I misbehave in a YOI?
The disciplinary system is similar to adult prisons but with adaptations for age. Adjudications can result in loss of privileges, though added days are used more sparingly for younger prisoners.
Will my criminal record affect my future if I am under 18?
Youth cautions and convictions are subject to different disclosure rules. Some become spent more quickly than adult convictions. However, serious offences can remain on your record and affect employment, education, and travel for many years.
*Last updated: June 2026.*