Kids in the justice system get new place to play and heal

Children caught up in the justice system and those dealing with family trauma now have a dedicated space to play, heal and recover, following the opening of the country's first play therapy room inside a Department of Correctional Services (DCS) probation office.

The facility, located at the DCS' newly opened probation office at Shop 19, Big Buy Plaza in Portmore, St Catherine, was officially unveiled on July 8.

Staffed by two trained play therapists, the room is designed to help children process difficult emotions and experiences through structured play, providing early therapeutic support for those affected by family conflict, abuse and other traumatic experiences.

State Minister in the Ministry of National Security and Peace, Juliet Cuthbert Flynn, hailed the initiative as a significant step in strengthening rehabilitation services for Jamaica's children.

"This marks an important milestone in the delivery of probation services, particularly for children who come into contact with the justice system or who are affected by family conflict, drama or other adverse experiences," she said.

She added that the specialised service would strengthen the department's ability to provide early interventions that promote emotional healing, build resilience and improve long-term outcomes for children and their families.

"It is a powerful reminder that rehabilitation is not 'one size fits all', but must respond to the unique needs of every individual, especially our youngest and most vulnerable," Cuthbert Flynn said.

The new probation office also houses private counselling rooms, sex offender registration rooms, executive offices and a conference room as part of the DCS' efforts to modernise its facilities and improve service delivery.

Commissioner of Corrections Brigadier (Ret'd) Radgh Mason said the opening represents more than just a new office.

"We're not simply cutting a ribbon today, we're strengthening the national security ecosystem. Probation, rehabilitation, reintegration and reducing reoffending all contribute directly to national security," Mason said.

He added that the department remains committed to ensuring offenders receive the support needed to successfully reintegrate into society.

The Portmore probation office falls under the DCS' Region One network, which serves St Catherine, Kingston, St Andrew and St Thomas.

The region currently supervises 1,280 non-custodial clients, including registered sex offenders, while islandwide the DCS oversees 2,093 non-custodial clients and 507 registered sex offenders.

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