Macro and Micro Patterns in the Development of Secure Custodial Institutions for Serious and Persistent Young Offenders in England and Wales

Abstract

During the last two centuries England and Wales have developed what is now referred to as the ‘secure estate for juveniles’: various institutions providing custody for young offenders. Overall (macro) patterns of use of custody have been shown to relate to ideological swings in policy throughout this period. However, alongside this broader policy context, each institution has its own history of development (micro). This article identifies common themes in the rise and fall of custodial institutions. It concludes that focusing solely on macro analysis underestimates the complexities of developing a custodial institution, and disguises lessons from the past.