The BBC is due to broadcast an edition of its Panorama programme which we understand will contain allegations about some staff at Medway STC. Some of these allegations are being reported in the media.

YJB Chief Executive Lin Hinnigan, said:

The safety and wellbeing of children and young people in custody is paramount for the YJB which is why immediate steps have been taken to safeguard those who are at Medway STC.

We have increased our own monitoring activity and the presence of our independent advocacy service, delivered by Barnardos. All of the staff identified in the allegations have been suspended by G4S, which runs the STC.

Kent Police are reviewing each alleged incident and an investigation is underway. We are working closely with them and the other agencies involved, so it is not appropriate for us to comment further on the allegations.

Anyone with concerns or further questions can contact the YJB enquiries line on Tel: 020 3334 5300.