This thesis compares the youth justice systems in England and Wales and Spain, examining the practical implications and experiences of children within each jurisdiction. Through a mixed-methods approach involving questionnaires with 561 young people in Spanish Re-educational Centres (RECs) and interviews with 11 young people and 10 staff members, the study highlights key differences between the two systems.

While both countries have similar policies, their underlying philosophies and practices differ significantly. The Spanish system is more child-focused, emphasising rehabilitation and reintegration, while the English and Welsh system is more contract-focused and punitive. The study suggests that factors such as the age of criminal responsibility, the use of criminal records, the involvement of not-for-profit organizations, and the training and qualifications of staff working with young offenders contribute to these differences. The author recommends raising the age of criminal responsibility, limiting the use of criminal records, involving not-for-profit organizations in the management of youth custody, and ensuring that staff working with young offenders are highly qualified and trained in child-centered approaches.

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