Solitary Confinement for Young Persons Staying in State-run Homes

The Member is mistaken. There is no such practice of solitary confinement of young persons under statutory care. To deter further serious misdemeanours by the child or young person (CYP), and also to protect the safety of the CYP and/or other residents, the law allows the person-in-charge of a home to separate a CYP from other residents. While youths undergoing separation are housed alone, they continue to attend programmes and receive visits.

Over the last three years, an annual average of 80 CYPs were separated from other residents in Ministry of Social and Family Development Youth Homes, that is, Singapore Boys’ and Girls’ Homes. The average duration of separation was four days. The law allows separation only if the CYP is 12 years old or older.

International research has shown that a short period of separation can help the CYP "cool off" after difficult incidents. Such separation, where needed, is done in a manner that has the safety and well-being of the CYPs as the primary consideration. The room where the CYP is separated in is bright and airy and the CYP always has a means of communication with the Home staff during the period of separation.

Prior to separating a CYP from other residents, the CYP is seen by a medical professional to ensure that he or she is physically and psychologically fit for separation. During the period of separation, the CYP is supported and engaged regularly by the staff of the Home, such as youth guidance officers, caseworkers and psychologists. After the period of separation, the CYP will continue to receive the necessary support and interventions needed to help him/her understand and address the underlying reasons for his/her behaviour. Such support enables the CYPs to complete their rehabilitation journey to become well-adjusted individuals.