Isle of Wight children help with major police station redesign
Newport Police Station has now got newly redesigned rooms which aim to soften the intimidating environment for children
Newport Police Station's upgraded some of its rooms as part of a major transformation to young people's justice spaces on the Isle of Wight.
The work aims to soften the intimidating environments children encounter when engaging with the justice system.
It's part of the Isle of Wight Council's Youth Justice Service "Child First Spaces" initiative.
Ruth Hayles, Service Lead, said: “Children have told us repeatedly that traditional justice spaces can feel frightening and overwhelming.
“By redesigning these rooms with them, not just for them, we’re showing that their voices matter. The new space at Newport Police Station will make a real difference to how young people experience these difficult moments.”
She added that it marks a "significant milestone" in the programme.
The Newport Police Station project was a joint initiative with Artswork’s Young Cultural Changemakers programme, which empowers children and young people to make a positive difference to their communities through creativity.
The children co-created the design with local artist, Laura Hathaway, in a series of workshops.
Earlier transformations have taken place at County Hall and the Isle of Wight Youth Court.
Staff at County Hall said the layout and decor help victims and children to feel safe enough to speak openly as part of their harm-reduction work.
Children have helped at every stage - choosing colours and furniture to develop artwork and themes.
The Youth Justice Service says this “child‑led” approach supports the national shift toward “Child First” justice principles.
Ruth added: “When children help design the spaces they use, they feel ownership, pride and dignity. These projects show just how powerful creativity and collaboration can be.”