Technology innovation to support young people in the children and young people secure estate

Abstract

The use of technology within education and mental health provision has progressed significantly over recent years and opportunities for integrated provision to utilise technology to enhance young people’s learning and psychological wellbeing are on the rise. Access to education has been found to be a protective factor for young people in forensic populations, whereas a lack of engagement in education can be a risk factor for offending. The use of technology is also evolving within forensic settings and may support engagement in therapeutic interventions.The current paper offers feedback from young people and staff within a Secure Children’s Home (SCH) in the North East of England, regarding their views on technology as a means to enhance learning and psychological wellbeing.The Meganexus Virtual Campus In-Room system is a viable solution for in-room technology with an emphasis on security and accessibility in secure settings. This system was demonstrated and reviewed by a total of eight young people and 35 staff members within a SCH. Preferences and views regarding the feasibility and efficacy of technology in young people’s secure services were examined.Overall, young people and staff felt that technology could be useful to support young people’s education and psychological wellbeing. Qualitative feedback highlighted several recommendations relating to education, multidisciplinary working, empowering young people, and promoting wellbeing. Conclusion: Promoting education and psychological wellbeing is essential within forensic settings for young people, and technology may provide an innovative solution to enhance engagement within secure settings. Implications and recommendations for future research are presented.