Juvenile Detention in the UK: Secure Children's Homes and Training Centres

No "Juvenile Detention Centres" in the UK

The United Kingdom does not use the term "juvenile detention centres." Instead, the youth justice system employs two types of secure custodial facilities for children and young people (typically aged 10–17) convicted of serious offenses:

1. Secure Children's Homes (SCHs)

• Small, therapeutic environments with high staff-to-child ratios.
• Focus on welfare, education, and rehabilitation.
• Accommodate younger or more vulnerable children (often 10–14).
• Run by local authorities or voluntary organizations.

2. Secure Training Centres (STCs)

• Larger, more institutional settings for older youths (12–17).
• Emphasis on education, vocational training, and addressing offending behavior.
• Operated by private companies under contract to the Youth Custody Service.

Current Numbers (England & Wales, 2022)

• 12 Secure Training Centres
• 19 Secure Children's Homes

Note: Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own distinct systems (e.g., secure care in Scotland). The above figures apply to England and Wales.