New figures reveal Suffolk Constabulary carried out 237 strip searches on under-18s over the past three years, with 43 searches conducted last year.
Why it matters: The figures raise concerns about police use of intrusive search powers on young people, with children accounting for 10% of all strip searches in Suffolk.
The big picture: Suffolk police carried out 2,451 strip searches across all age groups since 2021:
43 searches were conducted on under-18s last year.
The force received four complaints about strip searches during this period.
None of the searches involved children under 10.
Worth noting: Strip searches don't always involve full nudity. They can range from removing a shirt to all clothing, and can happen either in custody or during stop and search.
Balancing safety and sensitivity: Suffolk Constabulary says it is "very conscious" that searches of children must be carried out "with sensitivity and in line with legislation, policy and procedure." A spokesperson stressed that strip searches of under-18s are "only used where it is felt it is absolutely necessary in respect of detection and prevention of crime and keeping people safe."
Yes, but: The Children's Society argues more safeguards are needed, calling for strip searches to be used only as a last resort, better police training, mandatory presence of a trusted adult, and improved recognition of signs of harm in young people.
Oversight and scrutiny: The force says it has developed "a close working relationship" with partners including Ipswich & Suffolk Council Racial Equality (ISCRE). Through an independent Police Powers Scrutiny Group, chaired by ISCRE, "the public have a voice in which to challenge and discuss our use of policing powers."
Looking ahead: The Home Office acknowledges strip searches are among the "most intrusive powers" available to police, with the government committed to introducing new safeguards for searching young people.
Suffolk Police say they "welcome any legislation or best practice guidance regarding stop searches" and will ensure officers are "appropriately informed and trained."
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has recently recommended mandatory safeguarding referrals when intimate searches are conducted on children.
The bottom line: While strip searches of children make up 10% of all searches in Suffolk, both the government and local police have committed to strengthening safeguards. Suffolk Constabulary says these measures will enable them to "better serve our communities, work with and protect any children we come into contact with."
