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.

The Atkinson Unit have their own website at www.atkinsonunit.org.uk.