Medomsley Detention Centre

Today (12 November 2025), the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman published their report into Medomsley Detention Centre. Their terms of reference were to look into:  

• what the authorities knew about the abuse from 1961 to 1987 
• if there were opportunities to take action or intervene 
• what action was taken.  

The government has addressed an open letter to all victims and survivors who endured this shocking abuse at Medomsley and has made a formal apology for the failings which occurred. 

A Written Ministerial Statement setting out the government’s full response and apology was made in Parliament today. 

The government has established a Youth Custody Safeguarding Review Panel, led by the Chief Social Worker for Children and Families, to respond to the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman’s report. The terms of reference sets out the panel’s purpose - to review current safeguarding arrangements to ensure children are protected while in the custodial estate.

Should you wish to access support, the following support services are available:  

• NSPCC – 0808 800 5000 (freephone 24 hour)  
• Samaritans – freephone 24/7 – 116123 
• Victim support – 0808 1689111  
• Rape crisis helpline – 0808 5002222