In this programme we meet Holloway’s youngest inmates. Their stories provide an insight into the pattern of criminality among young women and the way they deal with prison life.
For some, it is ‘Hotel Holloway’, a refuge among a surrogate family away from the turbulence of drink, drugs and violence on the outside; for others, it is an opportunity to learn lessons and ensure they do not return.
Aged between 18 and 21 they are kept separate from other prisoners. For many, prison provides the first experience of order in otherwise chaotic lives. A high proportion spent childhood in care; others witnessed or suffered violence and nearly a third experienced sexual abuse. By the time they get to Holloway 90 per cent of young offenders have mental health problems or addictions. They are also highly prone to self harm.
