A state-of-the-art children’s home which will care for some of society’s most vulnerable young people has opened its doors for the first time.

The Lansdowne Secure Children’s Home in Hailsham is said to be one of the most modern and secure facilities in the country.

The £8 million development was built on the site of its original base in Hawks Road.

The scheme, funded by the Department for Education, houses young people who may be in danger of harming themselves or others, who are placed in secure accommodation for their own protection or that of others in the community.

Teresa Lavelle-Hill, the head of looked- after children’s services at East Sussex County Council, said: “We have been able to provide an excellent service at the old Lansdowne but the new building takes the care we can offer to a whole new level.

“While it’s important to maintain high levels of safety and security, Lansdowne is primarily a children’s home and its residential area remains child-focused and homely.

“It is home to some of the most vulnerable children in care and will provide a safe, secure but nurturing environment in which young people can live, learn and socialise.”