The Atkinson unit

The Atkinson Unit was opened in the late 1970s as a South West Regional Secure Unit providing secure accommodation for up to 12 boys and girls.
As part of a Government initiative to increase the provision of secure beds throughout the country, the Unit underwent a major rebuilding and refurbishment programme in 1995/96. This resulted in an increase to 16 beds with greatly improved facilities and resources.
Children and young people are admitted to the Unit for a variety of reasons but broadly speaking, they fall within the following categories

They are a danger to themselves or others.
They are remanded by the Courts.
They are serving a sentence for a serious offence.


We aim to

To work in partnership with other professionals and carers to meet the identified needs of the young person.
(In line with the outcomes of every child matters)

Support young people, their families and carers through period of crisis by helping them to confront and understand the problems that have led to their admission

Assist young people and other concerned with their welfare to make a realistic assessment of their needs and how they can be met

Use positive intervention to build a sense of achievement and self-worth that will provide a solid base for future progress.

It is the ethos of the Unit that the residents and staff should be treated with consideration and respect at all times.

Everyone in the Unit, staff and residents, can make an equally valuable contribution to personal and environmental development.