Consistently overlooked in policy, young adult women are a minority in the criminal justice system on account of both their age and gender. Despite pockets of good practice, there is limited provision designed to meet their needs.

This briefing paper sets out the current policy context and key findings about young women’s experiences as they turn 18 and transition to the adult justice system, as well as experiencing changes in other kinds of provision, including mental health support, accommodation, reduced safeguarding responses and leaving care.

Drawing on insights from an expert seminar, research undertaken with girls and young women and existing literature and data, this briefing paper makes recommendations for researchers, policymakers and those working directly with girls and young women about what needs to change.

Published in April 2021 by the Young Women’s Justice Project