What Does Isolation Do to Children? Neuroscience Meets Youth Justice
Date: Tuesday 17th November 2026 | Time: 1pm-2pm
Free for YJLC members | Tickets: £15
What does the latest neuroscience tell us about the impact of isolation on children – and how should this influence youth justice practice?
Join YJLC and world-leading neuroscientist Professor Sarah-Jayne Blakemore for a special webinar exploring the impact of social isolation on the developing adolescent brain and its implications for children in the youth justice system.
Drawing on her recently published research, Professor Blakemore will explore how social isolation can affect adolescents' risk perception, reward-seeking and sensitivity to threat.
Bringing together neuroscience, law and frontline experience, the webinar will examine how this evidence should inform the way children are treated, supported and safeguarded. From solitary confinement in custody to isolation in schools and the links between exclusion and criminalisation, we will explore the implications for youth justice policy and practice.
Speakers
Professor Sarah-Jayne Blakemore | University of Cambridge
Renowned neuroscientist and leading expert in adolescent brain development. Her research focuses on the development of the social brain during adolescence, including peer influence and sensitivity to social environments. She is the author of Inventing Ourselves: The Secret Life of the Teenage Brain.
Sinead McCann | Managing Solicitor, Howard League for Penal Reform
Specialist solicitor leading the Howard League's legal service for children and young people in custody, with expertise in children's rights and strategic litigation.
Alan Webster | Ministry of Justice
Alan is the Deputy Director for Youth Justice Policy in the Ministry of Justice, responsible for shaping and delivering the Government’s policy and strategy in relation to the youth justice system - from early intervention and diversionary activity through courts, sentencing, custody and resettlement policy.
Chair: Shauneen Lambe | YJLC Director
The webinar will include short presentations followed by a chaired discussion and an opportunity for audience questions.
Who should attend?
Youth Justice Service professionals, criminal lawyers, children's social care practitioners and others working with children affected by isolation, exclusion or the criminal legal system.