The practice of child strip searches has been a topic of controversy, especially after the case of Child Q, a 15-year-old Black girl who was strip searched at her London school under false suspicion of cannabis possession. A recent report from the Children’s Commissioner revealed that between 2018 and mid-2023, over 3,300 strip searches were conducted on children in England and Wales. Shockingly, one in 20 of these searches did not follow proper procedures, such as having an appropriate adult present.
Investigative journalist Sean Morrison uncovered a confidential report that shed light on the issue of stop and search practices in Avon and Somerset Police. The report identified ‘super users’ of stop and search in Bristol who disproportionately targeted Black individuals. Between 2017 and the end of last year, Black people were subjected to full strip searches almost 25 times more frequently than White individuals, while Black children were 10 times more likely to undergo such searches.
In a recent episode of the Debrief, Sean discusses the contents of the leaked report with host Priyanka Raval. They delve into the implications of the report’s findings on institutional racism within the police force. The report raises questions about what actions the police have taken, if any, to address the clear disparities highlighted in the report.
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In related news, the Robins Foundation has implemented football sessions in Hartcliffe’s Morrisons car park to address anti-social behavior, resulting in a significant drop in complaints. Additionally, Key4Life, a charity in Easton, is working to reduce youth reoffending through innovative rehab programs. Youth Moves is empowering south Bristol’s youth by bridging cultural and economic gaps to help them reach their full potential.
Despite efforts to address youth violence and knife crime in Bristol, challenges remain. The recent tragic death of 18-year-old Dontae Davis in Lawrence Hill has sparked calls for increased protection for young people. Discussions around the influence of drill music on youth violence are ongoing, with concerns raised by both Avon and Somerset Police and local youth workers.
Delroy Hibbert, who works with Bristol’s youth, emphasizes the importance of breaking the cycle of criminality and incarceration through therapy and investment in young people. By providing support and opportunities for growth, communities can work towards reducing crime and creating a safer environment for all residents.
