Module 4.3

4.3 Creating a Child-Sensitive Police Station Environment

For many children, a police station is an unfamiliar and intimidating place. This fear is much greater when the child has already experienced violence, abuse, exploitation or loss. The layout of the station, the people present, the level of noise, and the manner in which officers interact can all affect how the child feels and behaves.

An environment that is noisy, crowded, harsh or dominated by adult detainees can silence children, increase trauma and discourage reporting of abuse. Therefore, the physical and social environment of the police station is an essential part of child protection practice.

A child-sensitive station environment

• reduces fear, stress and confusion
• helps the child feel physically and emotionally safe
• encourages the child to speak openly and truthfully
• strengthens public trust in the police as protectors

4.3.1 Child Protection Desk or Focal Person

Where a Women and Child Protection Desk already exists, it should be treated as the primary point for receiving and handling child-related matters in the station.

In stations where no dedicated desk is established, the Station House Officer (SHO) should:

• designate a specific officer as the Child Protection Focal Person
• ensure all staff know who this officer is
• ensure the focal person understands key protection procedures

The Child Protection Focal Person should:

• guide colleagues on child-sensitive practice
• coordinate referrals to child protection authorities and services
• ensure respectful and safe handling of children within the station
• help monitor that children are never kept in adult lock-ups or exposed to accused persons

A female police officer should be assigned to handle cases involving girls and younger children, as this often increases their comfort and sense of safety.

4.3.2 Child-Friendly Space 

Every police station should, as far as possible, identify a small, quiet area where children can be received and interviewed safely and privately. Good practice includes:

• locating the area away from lock-ups, weapons, and high-traffic areas
• keeping the space clean, calm and smoke-free
• ensuring privacy from unrelated adults and suspects
• providing simple seating, such as a table and a few chairs

The purpose is not decoration, but dignity and safety.

Where a separate room is not available, officers should use the least intimidating, most private part of the station for all child interactions. This small adjustment can make a significant difference to how safe and respected a child feels during police contact.

Key Message

A child-sensitive station environment reassures children that the police are there to protect them, not to punish, blame or frighten them.