Over 40 organisations have criticised the government’s decision to extend the use of PAVA spray—typically used in adult prisons—into young offender institutions (YOIs). Campaigners argue the move contradicts the ‘Child First’ approach and risks escalating violence and harming children.

Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood approved a 12-month rollout to select staff in Feltham A, Werrington and Wetherby YOIs, citing record levels of violence. Feltham A was labelled the “most violent prison in the country” by HM Inspectorate of Prisons in 2024.