Close-up of handcuffed hands, one hand visible and the other hidden behind the back
Ministers say the changes will make life fairer for people from disadvantaged backgrounds in particular. Photograph: Sipa Press/Rex Features
Ministers say the changes will make life fairer for people from disadvantaged backgrounds in particular. Photograph: Sipa Press/Rex Features
‘A second chance’: children guilty of serious offences will no longer have to declare criminal records

Government proposal aims to reduce number of children in custody in England and Wales and boost youth employment

Children found guilty of robbery, dealing drugs to other children or violent disorder will no longer have to disclose their criminal records to prospective employers under sweeping government proposals to change the youth justice system.