Secure unit for children could be improved

Plans Underway to Improve Jersey's Secure Unit for Children

The Greenfields secure unit in Five Oaks could be expanded to better accommodate young people in Jersey with a range of needs, according to the Minister for Children and Families.

The facility was originally designed for children who had been remanded into custody or required a safe place to stay due to welfare concerns. However, Minister Constable Richard Vibert has indicated that Greenfields could be developed further to offer more tailored support.

Future Developments

Mr. Vibert stated that the government is assessing the potential costs before finalising any formal plans.

“The aim is to expand Greenfields into a specialist campus, incorporating a children’s home, a step-down unit, an emergency bed, and a remand bed to better meet the diverse needs of young people,” he explained.

Additionally, the government is exploring alternative approaches to secure accommodation orders through the use of inherent jurisdiction.

Long-Term Strategy

The future of Greenfields is being considered as part of a broader review of residential care for children in Jersey. This initiative forms part of the government’s refreshed improvement plan, which includes an analysis of projected needs over the next five years.

Mr. Vibert emphasised that these developments align with the ongoing efforts to enhance care provision for vulnerable children on the island.