Inside Kibble
Safety first for children given security and care
With a bright pink colour scheme, a wall plastered in posters and a table scattered with cosmetics, it could be the bedroom of any teenage girl.
But each item has been carefully vetted for safety and the only way to get into the room is with a pass to unlock a security door.
At Kibble Safe Centre, the emphasis is making sure the young people who come here – who are at risk of harming themselves or others – are completely safe.
Access to each part of the unit is strictly controlled and the long, echoing corridors with numerous closed doors means there is no escaping the fact it is an institution.
However, there is also an emphasis on making it as homely and comfortable as possible.
Each of the three six-bedroom houses has a communal TV area with comfy sofas and pool tables – currently decked out with Christmas trees and tinsel.
There is also a kitchen with tables scattered around for chatting and relaxing over some food.
The cutlery, however, is locked away.
Facilities include a swimming pool, a gym, football pitches and outside space for barbecues during summer.
There are also classrooms, with lessons on everything from art and music to IT and cooking, and a small medical room for consultations with a GP, nurse or dentist take place.
Specialist support, such as psychologists and family support workers is on hand.
Life follows a pattern – from early morning wake-up call to lessons during the day and activities before bed.
For the young people who end up here, who may have led chaotic, troubled lives, it can be the first time they have ever followed a routine.
The average stay is five months but, poignantly, some children never want to leave.