People under 18 who are sentenced to custody are sent to secure centres for young people, not to adult prisons. 

Why young people are sent to custody 

A court can give a young person a custodial sentence if: 

• the crime is so serious there is no other suitable option  

• the young person has committed crimes before 

• the judge or magistrate thinks the young person is a risk to the public 

A young person can also be sent to custody on remand.  

The Youth Justice Board decides which secure centre a young person will be sent to. 

They will choose somewhere that: 

• can deal with the young person’s needs safely, e.g. if they have a health problem 

• is suitable for their age, sex and background 

• is as near to their home as possible 

See also: 

• Arriving at custody 

• What custody is like for young people 

• Visiting young people in custody 

• Advice and support 

• Advocacy services 

• Organisations that can help 

Additional information on Young people in Custody can be found on GOV.UK.