New Data ‘Highlights Growing Public Confidence In Coming Forward About Concerns’

By Rob Dixon

Lawyers specialising in helping victims of abuse of all kinds to gain justice over the ordeals they have endured, have welcomed new figures highlighting an increase in the number of complaints to Lancashire Constabulary over child abuse concerns.
 
According to the force, it received 467 complaints between April and August this year, compared to 353 over the same period 12 months ago, with allegations related to both historic and current issues rising at a similar rate.
 
Lancashire Constabulary, which brought former broadcaster Stuart Hall to justice, has now also launched Child Sexual Exploitation Awareness Week to continue to raise awareness of tackling such issues.
 
Working with partners, it will be carrying out activities focusing on prevention, awareness and community engagement.
 
Tracey Storey, a Partner and specialist in child abuse claims at Irwin Mitchell, represents people of all ages who have suffered serious psychological and physical trauma as a result of abuse and works to gain justice over the problems they have faced.
 
Commenting on the new figures, she said: “The release of these figures has come just days after the NSPCC also stated it had seen a dramatic increase in calls related to abuse and it is clear that a number of high-profile cases and scandals have put the issue of abuse firmly in the spotlight.
 
“There has undoubtedly been a sea change in attitude towards this issue, with victims and those with concerns feeling more empowered and able to come forward – often safe in the knowledge that their voices will be heard.
 
“Whereas once there was concern that allegations may fall on deaf ears, recent revelations and the handling of them have clearly transformed attitudes. It is vital that this work continues and every allegation is thoroughly investigated, with the ultimate aim of ensuring lessons are learned which will provide better safeguarding to youngsters.”

Read more about Irwin Mitchell's expertise in relation to Child Abuse claims