A group set up to protect children in Medway will be carrying out an investigation into alleged abuse at a youth jail.

Today, the Medway Safeguarding Children Board has announced they will be conducting a Serious Case Review following allegations staff had abused teenagers at Medway Secure Training Centre.

Police have been investigating alleged incidents at the Rochester centre, which houses youngsters aged 12 to 17, after footage filmed by an undercover reporter was broadcast by the BBC's Panorama programme.

The documentary, broadcast in January, showed staff appearing to use excessive force on some inmates.

John Drew, Chair of Medway Safeguarding Children Board, said: “The Medway Safeguarding Children Board will be conducting a Serious Case Review in relation to alleged abuse of children at the Medway Secure Training Centre.

"The SCR will identify where lessons can be learned about the way that organisations linked to the centre worked together and individually.

"An independent chair and reviewer will be appointed to conduct the review."

According to MSCB's website, the prime purpose of a Serious Case Review is for agencies and individuals to learn lessons so they can improve the way in which they work individually and together, in order to safeguard and promote the welfare of children.