Response to today’s Howard League report on child arrests

Message from Humberside Police:-

This morning the Howard League for Penal Reform has released details of the number of children arrested nationally and in the force area, and have given praise for the work we do.

Arrests of children by Humberside Police have been reduced by 76 per cent in the last seven years. We made 1,385 arrests of children aged 17 and under last year, down from 5,751 in 2010. 

Across England and Wales, the total number of child arrests has been reduced by 68 per cent – from almost 250,000 in 2010 to 79,012 last year. 

The statistics, compiled from responses to Freedom of Information requests, show the continued success of a major Howard League programme, which involves working with police forces to keep as many boys and girls as possible out of the criminal justice system.

Chief Inspector Michelle Garlick said: “As a force we have received praise for our work in diverting children away from custody and we really welcome today’s report by the Howard League.

“We do not criminalise young people wherever possible as this can have an extremely detrimental effect on them.

“There are ways of dealing with children that have a better long term impact on them and the wider community.

“When children are put into custody they are more likely to reoffend, and may have to live with the consequences of their actions well into adulthood.

“Instead we work with families and partners to try and resolve whatever it is that’s causing the problem in the first place.

“Some families are offered parenting courses. Social and youth services can offer other forms of intervention and we work closely with local councils and housing associations.

“We also get involved with organising activities that encourage young people to build more positive relationships and better lives.”