03/07/2012

Care Home Reforms Urged To Tackle Child Sex Abuse

Plans to combat the sexual exploitation of children in care homes by gangs have been published by the government.

The move follows the conviction of nine men in a child sex ring sparked concerns about the safety of children's homes and recommendations made by the deputy children's commissioner in a report on sexual exploitation.

Children's Minister Tim Loughton said: "These are big changes to a system, which has been letting down too many.

"We want to get rid of an 'out of sight, out of mind' culture which sees residential care as a last resort, instead of protecting vulnerable young people and giving them the best possible start in life."

Deputy children's commissioner Sue Berelowitz said: "Children have told me of being abducted, threatened, serially raped and subjected to other forms of violence resulting in them feeling worthless and losing all sense of self respect.

"Tragically this is too often compounded by adults refusing to believe what is happening. They must be taken seriously if we are to uncover the truth and protect them; doubting them only reinforces their sense of despair and abandonment."

Ministers have now pledged a wide-ranging review of the quality and effectiveness of children's homes, including management, ownership and staffing.

(GK)




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