The Bafta-winning anthology series created by Jimmy McGovern returns with a new three-part drama centered on a young offender institution (YOI). This latest installment introduces a fresh cast while retaining Siobhan Finneran, who reprises her role as prison chaplain Marie-Louise O’Dell. Following a crisis of faith, O’Dell has transferred to the YOI, where she navigates the complex environment of youth incarceration.

David Tennant joins the cast as senior officer Bobby Bailey, a rigid rule follower whose troubled personal life begins to affect his professional conduct. The series explores the experiences of several young inmates, including Peter (Ollie McNulty) and James (Louis McCartney), two teenagers confronting the harsh realities of their early days behind bars for violent offenses. Christopher (Chukwubuikem Molokwu), another inmate, is portrayed as particularly vulnerable within the institution's challenging atmosphere.

As the narrative progresses, a tragic event places O’Dell in direct conflict with Bailey and his colleague Freddie Jennings (Daniel Ryan). Both officers possess undisclosed knowledge about the circumstances leading to the incident, raising tensions and questions of accountability. Throughout the episodes, the series delves into overlapping themes of truth, justice, and redemption, examining whether revealing the truth can provide relief or further complicate the characters’ lives.

Set against the stark backdrop of the penal system, the drama continues McGovern’s exploration of institutional challenges, personal struggles, and ethical dilemmas faced by those who work within and are confined by the justice system.