Figures Raise Concern Over Abuse
Improvements need to be seen in the childcare system following the release of new research which casts doubt over standards, an abuse expert at Irwin Mitchell has demanded.
Figures compiled by ChildLine have revealed that one in 26 children thought to be cared for by the system have contacted the organisation and revealed they are suffering neglect or abuse of both a physical and sexual nature.
The body is now calling for local authorities to ensure children who are fostered or cared for in some capacity have access to adults who will speak up for them.
Tracey Storey of Irwin Mitchell’s London office, who provides advice and support to those who have been the victims of abuse and neglect at a young age, said it was vital that such findings are acted upon.
She outlined: “Abuse can have a tremendous impact on the lives of young people, leaving them with horrific emotional and physical scars which they often have to deal with for the rest of their life.
“It is unacceptable that children should face such traumas, particularly when they have been led to believe they will be safe in the care of a foster family or elsewhere.
“I hope that this report leads to changes in the way that childcare services are offered across the UK, while we will continue to campaign for improvements in standards that lessons are learnt from the past which will help to ensure more youngsters are safe from harm.”