Sonia Sharma

Legal bodies including the Bar Council, Law Commission and Children’s Commissioner urge raising the age of criminal responsibility in England and Wales from 10 to 14, citing international standards and research showing criminalisation of young children increases future offending. The report argues that most offences by 10- to 14-year-olds do not involve custodial sentences and that interventions should focus on welfare, education and mental health rather than prosecution. Supporters say the change would better align with child development evidence and improve public safety, while the government states it will consider recommendations but has made no decision.