Concerns raised over treatment of children at Oakhill training centre
An inspection's been released into the facility
Concerns have been raised about children's treatment at Oakhill secure training centre.
The report, released by HM Inspectorate of Prisons and the Care Quality Commission, highlighted "unsafe" primary and mental healthcare at times at the centre in Milton Keynes.
Children as young as 12 are living at the G4S centre, with a total of seventy there at the time of the five-day inspection.
Among concerns raised were the size of living areas as well as a deterioration of education standards. As well as this, immunisation and vaccinations were not adequately monitored or administered.
However, it was noted that use of force and violence had reduced, with notable deteriorations in self-harm. Most of the children were spending more than 13 hours a day outside of their rooms.
The Howard League for Penal Reform is among those responding to the report, and had raised concerns over the segregation of children at Oakhill, with the report showing some children were licked in their bedrooms inappropriately; something the report calls to end immediately.
Andrea Coomber KC (Hon.), Chief Executive of the Howard League for Penal Reform, said: “Every child needs fresh air, education and contact with other people to thrive. But Oakhill is failing to provide that healthy environment, with education deteriorating, basic health needs going unmet, and some children being locked up for hours in their bedrooms.
“Coming only three years after Oakhill was made the subject of an urgent notification, the disturbing issues uncovered in this report require immediate attention. They reinforce our view that only smaller, more intensive settings such as secure children’s homes can meet the needs of children in custody, who often have been failed repeatedly by adults and statutory services.”
Oakhill Response
Oakhill Secure Training Centre Director Michelle Price said:
"Inspectors acknowledged that Oakhill is a transformed centre, with a nurturing and child-centred culture and a visible and accessible management team to both children and staff.
"There has been a marked reduction in use of force, self-harm and violence and most children spend more than 13 hours a day outside their rooms.
"Education is a key focus for all staff and children’s attendance is high. More than 70% of children who arrive with us have been NEET* in the community and have had significant exclusions. This is quickly addressed. Children who have been with us for more than 12 weeks on average gain at least two qualifications.
"We are disappointed by Ofsted’s rating which does not reflect the progress of the children, or the dedication of the staff. We made immediate changes following the inspection and we have a robust action plan to address the recommendations.
"We strive to ensure every child feels safe and supported, allowing them to achieve their full potential in their academic, vocational, physical and social skills. When they leave us, we want them to go on to make good decisions that lead to productive lives."
*No education, employment or training
Action Plan Launched
An action plan from Oakhill has been launched following the report, highlighting key areas including education and healthcare.
They have immediately ceased the use of Secure Training Centre Rule 31.
Oakhill will be working with other organisations to explore intervention opportunities, as well as having a plan for each child.
Managing children who are not engaging in education is also listed, as well as a complaints review and 'robust quality assurance' to be implemented.
Curriculum analysis will take place for education, as well as an exploration of provisions available.
The outcome's of children will be tracked, with a recruitment strategy also striving to 'attract and retain the best teaching staff'.