Our existing policy was to have oral hearings for all juveniles serving extended sentences for public protection who apply for parole while under the age of 18.

Following a consultation exercise the Executive Team and Management Board have agreed the following proposals, which will be put into immediate effect:

1. The policy where all EPP parole applications are progressed directly to an oral hearing is to continue.
2. The suitability for re-release of children serving determinate sentences who have been recalled will be considered on the papers within 2 days of referral; they will be entitled to an oral hearing if release is not directed on papers.
3. All children serving life sentences, including indeterminate sentences for public protection, will be progressed through ICM directly to an oral hearing.
4. The Listing Prioritisation Framework will be revised to assign all under 18 year old offenders top priority alongside adult recall cases.

The point at which the age of the offender is considered will be:

1. The age at the time the review commences (i.e. 6 months prior to Parole Eligibility Date or anniversary).
2. The age at the point of recall.
3. The age at the time the review commences (i.e. 6 months prior to tariff expiry or the date for subsequent review fixed by the Secretary of State).