Child Strip Searches in England and Wales: New Report Reveals Alarming Practices

A new report by Dame Rachel de Souza reveals over 3,300 child strip-searches in England and Wales from 2018 to mid-2023, many of which were unlawful and disproportionately targeted black children. The review follows the widely criticized 2020 strip-search of Child Q in Hackney. Efforts are underway to improve practices, with a 42% decrease in strip-searches reported from 2020 to 2022.

A recent report by Children's Commissioner for England, Dame Rachel de Souza, highlights excessive and problematic strip-searches of children in England and Wales from 2018 to mid-2023.

Over 3,300 strip-searches were conducted, with 47% resulting in 'no further action.' One in 20 did not follow obligatory rules, such as having an appropriate adult present.

Black children were disproportionately targeted. The review follows the 2020 strip-searching of Child Q in Hackney, east London, a case that drew public outrage.

Dame Rachel emphasizes that strip-searches should only occur under life-threatening conditions and insists an appropriate adult must always be present.

The report indicates improvement, showing a 42% decrease in strip-searches from 2020 to 2022 and a reduction in such searches of black children, although they remain four times more likely to be strip-searched compared to other children.

The Home Office and National Police Chiefs' Council are working on implementing new safeguards and refining officer training to address these concerns.