Report reveals challenges and hope for change at HMYOI Wetherby
Independent Monitors highlight critical issues and new improvement plan
Last updated 21st Jan 2026
The Wetherby Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) has outlined significant challenges, but expressed optimism for improved support at HMYOI Wetherby in its annual report published today, 21st January 2026.
The IMB highlighted ongoing issues faced by the Youth Offenders Institute, including concerns around safety, unacceptable conditions for separated young people, and disruptions to education following the collapse of provider Novus. However, the report praises the institute’s leadership and collaboration with the Youth Custody Service (YCS) in creating a three-year plan focused on safety, behaviour management, and education.
Key concerns raised by the IMB include:
Extremely challenging behaviour among young people serving lengthy sentences, with over 500 improvised weapons found between January and August 2025.
Violent incidents, while decreasing, remain a key issue.
Unacceptable conditions for separated young people, who often spend up to 23 hours a day in minimum-standard rooms with little to occupy them.
Low educational attainment due to the collapse of provider Novus, which had a significant impact.
Despite the challenges, the IMB was encouraged by positive steps taken at Wetherby:
The leadership team developed an alternative educational programme, with increased engagement from young people.
Efforts by the Governor and young people improved the physical environment and state of repair within the establishment.
Prompt and skilled responses from officers and the physical healthcare team earned commendation for caring for injured staff and young people.
Chair of Wetherby IMB, Catherine Porter, said: “We have seen plans like this before, but this time, real change must take place. With fewer young people serving custodial sentences, this is an opportunity that must be seized upon to improve the support towards rehabilitation these young people deserve to receive.”
The IMB hopes the three-year plan, with regular YCS oversight, will drive the necessary investment and focus required to improve conditions and rehabilitation efforts, ensuring young people receive the care, education, and support they deserve.