The independent charity Article 39 has published new research exploring allegations made against adults working in children’s institutional settings in England. The report explores allegations made in 2018-2019 and 2020-2021. Findings include: according to data provided by 59 local authorities, the most common type of alleged abuse was physical abuse (44%); only 16 local authorities provided information regarding the number of allegations that led to section 47 enquiries; and there is still no uniform process for local authorities to record and report data on institutional abuse and the outcomes of neglect allegations. Recommendations include: statutory guidance on keeping children safe in all institutional settings should be provided as a matter of urgency; and all abuse allegations should be investigated by independent child protection professionals.
Read the press release: Call for government guidance to keep children safe in institutional settings
Download the report: Abuse in children’s institutional settings: How much is known? (PDF)
Source: Article 39
Date: 15 December 2021
