Prison reform
In the late 19th century, prisons were still run along the lines of hard labour and harsh punishment. During the 20th century, many changes to this approach took place.
Changes in attitudes to crime
From the early 20th century, the belief that offenders had inherited some kind of criminal tendency was changing. Instead, it became more common to argue that people turned to crime as a result of their circumstances, such as poverty or being born into a criminal family. This meant that prisoners could be reformed by receiving better treatment in prison.
Some changes were already happening early on in the century:
- The use of the treadmill and the crank in prisons ended in 1902.
- Broadmoor Hospital was set up in 1896. Prisoners who were mentally ill were sent here instead of a mainstream prison.
Alexander Paterson
Between 1922 and 1947, Alexander Paterson was in charge of the Prison Service. Paterson was influenced by his Christian beliefs as well as by his experience in running clubs for underprivileged boys in London.
He firmly believed that it was not the threat of imprisonment itself that deterred people from committing crime. In fact, he believed that the only effective deterrent was the certainty of getting caught. Therefore, he argued, it made sense for prisons to be places of reform and The process of educating and restoring an offender back towards being a non-offending member of society. rather than punishment.
Changes in prisons between 1922 and 1947
Paterson was behind many important prison reforms that were introduced between 1922 and 1947:
- Prisoners were allowed to mix and talk to each other as the silent system was relaxed.
- Teachers were employed in prisons to increase education.
- Work was made more meaningful and prisoners were paid for their work.
- Diet, heating and conditions in cells were improved.
- Prisoners were allowed more visitors.
- In 1934, the first open prison was introduced. These have more relaxed rules that focus on preparing offenders for a return to ordinary life.
Changes for young offenders
Prisons
From c.1900 onwards, psychologists and prison reformers argued that the best way to improve society was to treat its youngest members well. This led to changes in punishments for young offenders.
In 1902, detention centres specifically for young people were introduced. They became known as borstals because the first one opened in the village of Borstal in Kent. The emphasis was on education and training young offenders so they would have the skills needed for employment once they were released.
In 1988, borstals were replaced with young offender institutions for those aged 18-20, and secure children’s homes for those aged 10-17. Education, training and support are still the main focuses.
Not everyone has agreed with taking a more lenient approach with young offenders. Between 1979 and 1990, under Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, the ‘short, sharp shock’ regime was used in detention centres. This involved using a deliberately tough approach for a few weeks or months. Approaches used included activities such as military-style drills and marching. However, it did not appear to reduce reoffending.
Age of criminal responsibility
In 1908, an age of criminal responsibility was introduced for the first time, but it changed through the years. Initially, it was seven years of age, then with the 1998 Crime and Disorder Act it was raised to 10 years of age.
