Fearless in custody

What is Fearless in custody?

Fearless in Custody is a dedicated initiative created to reach and support young people at the point they are most vulnerable, when they have been arrested or are spending time in police custody. 

We know that many children and vulnerable people do not disclose information when detained, often because they are frightened, confused, or under the influence of grooming or exploitation. These young and vulnerable people need safe, trusted routes to seek help and to share what they know about crime without fear. 

These young and vulnerable people need safe, trusted routes to seek help and to share what they know about crime without fear.

Statistics tell us that 21% of children who enter custody are looked-after and a further 25% are open to children’s social care.  

An estimated 30–40% of young people who pass through custody are neurodivergent.

Statistics tell us that 21% of children who enter custody are looked-after and a further 25% are open to children’s social care.  

62% have at least one confirmed additional vulnerability, such as ADHD, exploitation concerns or are out of education or employment, with 36% experiencing two or more and an estimated 30–40% of young people who pass through custody are neurodivergent.  

Click or tap here for information from the National Autistic Society about helping custody staff to engage with people with autism.

Fearless in Custody has been developed to empower these young and vulnerable people, to let them know they are not alone, to encourage them to reach out when they need support and to provide clear, accessible pathways for anonymously reporting information about crime. 

Below you will find links to the project toolkit, training videos, and supporting resources to help you embed Fearless in Custody within your organisation. These assets have been designed to help create a sense of calm in what is a very frightening and unsettling situation and to be inclusive to all young and vulnerable people. 

Safeguarding young and vulnerable people in custody 

Safeguarding young and vulnerable people during their time in custody is essential. This period can be frightening, isolating and confusing, especially for those already facing vulnerabilities, exploitation, or unmet support needs. Ensuring that young people and vulnerable people know where to turn, who to trust and how to access help is a vital part of keeping them safe.

Fearless is a unique service offering young people a place to speak up with absolute anonymity, providing a safe route for reporting. Many young people, particularly those on the periphery of crime, choose not to report concerns because they fear repercussions or being implicated through Joint Enterprise. Anonymous reporting through Fearless can act as a crucial last resort when a young person feels unable to speak to a trusted adult, safeguarding both them and their peers. It ensures they still have a way to share vital information, even when they don’t feel safe doing so openly.

The Fearless in Custody project builds on this ethos by promoting clear signposting to the right agencies and services. Fearless encourages parents and carers to seek advice, guidance, and professional help when navigating the custody process with a young person in their care. No adult should feel they have to manage these challenges alone, and accessing the right support early can make a significant difference to a child’s safety and wellbeing.