Ulster Unionist Children’s Spokesperson, Sandra Overend MLA, has called for a new approach to stopping child abuse through investing in preventative programmes following a report published today by the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC).
The Mid Ulster MLA said;
“This Report from the NSPCC estimates that there were 520,000 victims of maltreatment by a parent or guardian in the UK in 2011. I therefore support one of the key messages from the report which is to invest in preventative programmes to stop abuse happening in the first place.
If we are to make a real difference then we must adopt this new approach to child abuse. A partnership approach is also needed which is cross-departmental and involves agencies from the community and voluntary sector as well as the PSNI.’
‘Whilst in many ways children are safer today than in previous generations, most children who are abused or neglected are still slipping through the net with only 1 in 9 coming to the attention of the authorities. Emerging challenges such as child trafficking and internet safety, on which I recently led a debate on in the Assembly, must therefore be tackled head on.’
‘Many children at risk of harm are unknown to statutory agencies, so if you are concerned about a child you must speak up to make sure they get the support they need. The NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 is there 24/7 for any adult who is worried about a child.”