The criminal justice system rightly treats under 18s differently to adults, but there is a “cliff-edge” at 18. Suddenly treated as “adults”, over 18s receive harsher sentences and can no longer access youth support services. Yet the early twenties is a pivotal age for rehabilitation – this is when people need most help if they are to turn their lives around. The stigma of having to disclose a criminal record at this crucial stage can hold people back just as they are approaching adulthood.

Unlock has successfully helped bring changes to the criminal records system, including, in 2020, a fairer approach for people convicted as children. Now we want to find out how we can better help young people with a criminal record aged 18-25. We want to find out, from young people themselves, how the current complex system prevents them accessing education, training & employment, keeping them rooted in an unhappy past - and learn how we can help them break the cycle of disadvantage.