Child cruelty and neglect offences rise by almost 3000% in Dorset
The NSPCC say we all need to play a part in keeping children safe.
Last updated 2nd Dec 2020
The NSPCC say over 600 concerns about child abuse were recorded in the county last year.
Child cruelty and neglect offences have risen by almost 3,000% in Dorset since 2013.
New figures from the NSPCC show that in 2013/14, 20 offences were reported to Dorset Police, compared with the latest figures of 601.
140 new child cruelty and neglect offences were recorded by Dorset Police from 1st April to 30th June this year.
Although a significant number, senior police have argued that this does not provide the full picture of what children may have experienced during those months.
Peter Wanless, CEO of the NSPCC said:
“The pandemic is the greatest challenge we’ve faced in decades and these figures are yet another example of its impact on vulnerable children. They also provide a heart-breaking picture of the concern about the number of young people who were exposed to pain and suffering following the start of the pandemic.
“This year it is even more essential that children have a place where they can seek help and support. Our Childline service will be running every day over the Christmas holidays, but we need the public’s support so we can ensure vulnerable children are heard.”
While not every police-recorded offence leads to a prosecution or child protection outcome, each represents a significant concern raised to the police about a child.
Over the last six months the NSPCC has been looking closely at the impact of lockdown – and its frontline teams are concerned that increased vulnerability, the challenges of safeguarding remotely and wider pressures on families may have increased the risks of abuse and neglect.
During the spring lockdown, an average of 50 children a day turned to Childline after suffering abuse, with counselling sessions about this issue increasing by 22% compared with pre-lockdown levels.
'A Christmas warning'
The NSPCC has issued the findings as part of a warning that children may be at risk of abuse this Christmas and that everyone needs to play their part in keeping young people safe.
To raise awareness of child neglect and abuse this Christmas, a number of iconic UK landmarks including Battersea Power Station will turn green from the 7th December, supporting the NSPCC’s Here for Children Christmas Appeal.
'Spotting the signs of abuse'
The NSPCC is encouraging the public to look out for signs of abuse and speak up if they are concerned about a child. Signs of abuse and neglect to look out for can include:
· Untreated injuries, medical and dental issues
· Repeated accidental injuries caused by lack of supervision
· Recurring illnesses or infections
· Faltering weight or growth, and not reaching developmental milestones
· Poor language, communication or social skills
· Have unwashed clothes
· Have inadequate clothing, like not having a winter coat
· Living in an unsuitable home environment – for example without adequate heating, or dog mess being left
· Left alone for a long time
· Taking on the role of carer for other family members
Adults concerned about a child can contact the NSPCC helpline seven days a week on 0808 800 5000, or email help@nspcc.org.uk