What is the Borstal system?

What is the Borstal system?

Borstal system, English reformatory system designed for youths between 16 and 21, named after an old convict prison at Borstal, Kent. The system was introduced in 1902 but was given its basic form by Sir Alexander Paterson, who became a prison commissioner in 1922.

What was the purpose of Borstals?

The Borstal system was intended to separate young offenders from the influence of older habitual criminals and provide education and training, in the hope that this would make inmates less likely to reoffend once released.

What was life like in a Borstal?

Borstals were more about training, correction and developing employability, and less about punishment. For many boys, there was more on offer than at home — three square meals a day and physical, mental and religious discipline.

What is the origin of the word Borstal?

Old English beorh (“a hill”) + stigel (“a stile”). The institutions are named after Borstal Prison in Borstal, Rochester, Kent, England.

Are there still Borstals?

The Criminal Justice Act 1982 abolished the Borstal system in the UK, replacing Borstals with youth custody centres. In India, Borstal schools are used for the imprisonment of minors. As of 31 December 2014, there were twenty functioning Borstal schools in India, with a combined total capacity of 2,108 inmates.

Did girls get sent to borstal?

Following the passing of the Prevention of Crimes Act in 1908, girls aged between 16 and 21 years could be committed for Borstal training on the recommendation of the courts. The Governor and the Deputy Governor at the time were medical men and could offer little experience in dealing with young women and girls.

Where was borstal filmed?

Filming Locations for the borstal in Scum The 1979 film was filmed at Shenley Hospital in Hertfordshire. The 1977 screenplay was filmed at Redhill Hospital in Surrey. Both were asylums.

What does Borstal mean in British?

borstal in British English (ˈbɔːstəl ) noun. (formerly in Britain) an informal name for an establishment in which offenders aged 15 to 21 could be detained for corrective training. Since the Criminal Justice Act 1982, they have been replaced by youth custody centres ( now known as young offender institutions)

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