NSPCC Releases New Figures

The number of child abuse cases referred to both the police and social services by the NSPCC is an issue that simply cannot be ignored, a specialist at Irwin Mitchell has urged.

New figures from the charity have revealed that 16,385 serious cases were passed to authorities across 2010-11, which marks an all-time high and a 37 per cent increase from the previous 12 months.

It has also been revealed that referrals in around a third of the cases came from families which had not been in contact with the police or social services before.

Commenting on the findings, Tracey Storey, a Partner and child abuse specialist at Irwin Mitchell’s London office, said: “While the increasing willingness of people to help is massively important, it is disturbing to see just how many youngsters are being subjected to abuse and neglect.

“So many of the cases I have provided advice and support on have highlighted the devastating, long-term trauma that can be caused in such incidents.

“It is vital that this increase in referrals means that more children get the protection they need from the serious risk of injury or other forms of abuse.

I also hope that authorities will continue to work hard to ensure that all youngsters are given support as soon as possible.”

Our child abuse lawyers are committed to pursuing cases to the best possible outcome, without causing any additional psychological trauma to those affected. Call 0370 150 100 to talk confidentially to someone about making a claim or visit our Abuse & Criminal Injury Claims page for more information.