SYP: 'Dedicated team' set up to investigate abuse against disabled children in Doncaster
We've been speaking to Detective Chief Inspector Phil Etheridge about the recent findings and their plans moving forwards
South Yorkshire Police tell us a dedicated team has been set up to help investigate abuse against disabled children in Doncaster.
It comes after a report - which was published yesterday - found 'very serious abuse & neglect' took place at three residential settings in the city between 2018 & 2021.
Detective Chief Inspector Phil Etheridge says they're taking it very seriously:
"Not every child is a victim and not every staff member is potentially culpable for this abuse- but rest assured-those who are responsible will be investigated thoroughly and we will seek justice for the victims.
"I've set up a dedicated team; my role is to work with our partners in health & social care to understand exactly what's happened here, so that we're able to bring the best case we can against perpetrators.
"We're in contact with families who've been affected by some of the abuse which's taken place at residential settings in Doncaster.
"That contact is ongoing. When we do get to see our children, we'll work with families and other partners to make sure children are allowed to tell their story about what's happened to them here in South Yorkshire."
The Hesley Group-who are in charge of the homes-say they're 'deeply sorry' and that "swift action" was taken at the time.