Dr Harriet Pierpoint

Dr Harriet Pierpoint, Associate Professor of Criminology at University of South Wales will take part in a panel discussion focussing on the complex question of to what extent children and young people should be held responsible for their actions. The event forms part of the British Academy’s Childhood Policy Programme. 

This online event will explore the complex question of to what extent children and young people should be held responsible for their actions within the justice system. The age of criminal responsibility in England & Wales (10 years) is low by international standards, and panellists will discuss the appropriateness or otherwise of this age limit. 

There will also be a consideration of the Scottish Children’s Hearings System, including how this system compares with that found in England & Wales. A panel discussion will bring together different perspectives to consider the multifaceted relationship between children and young people and the justice system. 

This event will provide an opportunity to debate and discuss issues surrounding two of these provocation papers - Dr Michelle Donnelly's 'Scottish youth justice and the legacy of Kilbrandon' and Dr Harriet Pierpoint's 'Age of criminal responsibility'. 

Speakers will include:

• Dr Harriet Pierpoint, Associate Professor, Centre for Criminology, University of South Wales
• Professor Claire McDiarmid, Head of School, School of Law, University of Strathclyde 
• Dr Michelle Donnelly, Lecturer in Law, University of Stirling

The discussion will take place virtually by Zoom webinar on Tuesday 08 December, 2.00-3.30pm. If you would like to join us for this free event please register here.