With prisons overcrowded and rising minor crime rates for things like shoplifting and phone theft, I propose a very humane and effective punishment for minor crimes.

Any young person found guilty of a first offence should be sent for two weeks to a secure, non prison environment with adequate facilities for hygiene and comfort.

During those two weeks they would have no access to phones, television, radio, music, or computers.

Outside contact with friends and family would be by letter. On arrival their first duty would be to write to family 

They would be able to read books provided and would attend compulsory lessons. 

A counsellor would speak with each person to assess why they offend, their situation and to provide alternative paths for them to take.

Group sessions could also take place.

Meals would be provided but with strict observation and extension of the detention period for any anti-social behaviour. 

Removal of the constant stream of media and peer contact for two weeks would make more of an impact than conventional punishment.

For a subsequent offence the period would be for one month.

This approach would have a profound effect on young offenders.