Petition · past parliament · Home Office
Make it illegal to strip search under 18s without their choice of adult present
Closed
285 signatures
What the petition asks
Under 18s should only ever be subjected to a strip search if there is tangible evidence that deems it essential, and in such a case the child’s choice of adult should be present.
Black teenagers are often victims of "adultification" (seen as adults) and as a result can be treated more harshly than their white counterparts, including being subjected to strip searches. This is racist and despicable. Strip searches of under 18s, without an adult chosen by the child present, should be outlawed. In a society where diversity, equality and the prevention of violence against women and girls is valued, action to protect children is critical.
Timeline
| 23 Mar 2022 | Petition opened for signatures |
| 7 Oct 2022 | Closed to new signatures |
Key facts
Signatures
285
Status
Closed
Department
Home Office
Opened
23 Mar 2022
Closed
7 Oct 2022
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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 15 Jul 2026.