Reporting Suspected Child Abuse: Calls Made for Mandatory Reporting

A mother has called for mandatory reporting of suspected child abuse in schools to be introduced across the country. Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, she told how her daughter had been left “destroyed” following an incident at Stanbridge Earls School in Romsey, Hampshire. An inquiry by Ofsted into its inspections at the special school found that three visits from 2011 to 2012 were “problematic” and “each failed to get underneath concerns at the school”. As a result, “the judgments were not safe”. Some of the staff involved in the inspections have since either been sacked or disciplined for their conduct.

Child abuse allegations should be ‘independently investigated’

The school is due to close in December, but police are still carrying out an investigation following allegations that at least two former students were attacked. “I think we really need mandatory reporting for abused children so that professionals who are looking after our children know where they stand with it,” said the mother. “So if they fear or suspect abuse they will report it, and that will be independently investigated.” If you want to enquire about making a claim, you can speak to child abuse lawyers on 01895 207 835 or 01895 207 295. Alternatively, you can send an email with your name and contact information and brief details to PI@ibblaw.co.uk and a member of our child abuse compensation team will be able to help you.