A police force are arresting so many children that they have decided to make a custody cell more kid-friendly – by painting it PINK.
Thames Valley Police painted the cell after a surprise inspection, which found the usual white walls were too “threatening” for young people in custody.
Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services also found the 30-cell station in Abingdon, Oxford, had “no specific cells” for detained children.
Supt Katy Barrow-Grint, head of criminal justice for the force, is proud of the barmy paint job.
She said: “Being held in custody can be a difficult experience and painting the cell in a more calming colour provides a less threatening environment, which can be especially important for children when they have to be detained.
“We hope that it will make a difference to those that use it.”
The idea has been slammed online, with some suggesting that next officers will be buying young detainees an “Xbox” or “packet of Haribo”.
Bob Sherlock said: “Yeah, give them an Xbox and a packet of Haribo as well.
“Failing that, how about saving a few bob on the paint and using it to catch some f*cking criminals instead.”
Belinda Jane Corbett said: “They are in there for a reason why make them feel like they are special – bloody stupid.”
Tim Cocks: “What’s the date? Is it April 1st?”
Sallyrob Hammond said : “What on earth? Although there is a prison in America that I’ve heard off where the warden puts the prisoners in pink to show them up in public when there on a chain gang.”
William O’ Donnell said: “They have lost the plot.”
Leon Ruffell said: “So they have committed a crime and instead of them sh*tting themselves for being caught you want them more relaxed.
“Might as well put a PlayStation and a bag of sweets in there as well.”
However, previous studies have found the colour pink has a calming effect on people and can reduce aggression within 15 minutes.
Max Webber said: “Because even people that have done bad things have human rights and if two grown people don’t know that then damn I don’t know what to think about this world anymore
“And it is actually so it calm down the people in there.”
Lisa Lindo said: “I think this is a great idea.
“Well done Thames Valley Police. I presume it can be used for adults too if needed, especially those with mental health issues.”
Ron Miles said: “It’s not just simply about making cells child friendly.
“It has been proven throughout Europe that pink has a calming taming effect.”
Natalie Barcelona said: “There are many instances where children have to remain at police stations for short periods of time under Police Protection Orders for their own safety, so I think this is a great idea.”
The newly painted cell in the force’s Abingdon custody suite is known as “Cherrington’s Cell” in honour of Chief Insp Dave Cherrington.
He has been head of custody at Thames Valley Police for the last eight years and is retiring from the force after 30 years.
