The Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA) published their final report yesterday.
IICSA was set up in 2015 following serious concerns that multiple organisations had failed and were continuing to fail to protect children in their care from sexual abuse.
Fifteen investigations were carried out during the Inquiry. In that time, information was sought from the NSPCC for 9 investigations. These included investigations into residential schools, the internet, religious organisations and child sexual exploitation. Read the findings of the full report, on the IICSA website.
On the report, Sir Peter Wanless, NSPCC CEO said:
“It would be an utter tragedy if events in Westminster completely overshadowed the report and recommendations from IICSA. This was a chance to show the survivors and victims who broke the silence that we have heard them and that their legacy will be a national mission to prevent child sexual abuse. They deserve nothing less.
“We will soon have a new Prime Minister. They must make this report a defining moment by making sure there is political leadership to translate IICSA’s recommendations into a robust system that truly keeps children safe. They must start by appointing a Cabinet Minister for Children.
“NSPCC analysis shows there were more than 85,000 child sexual abuse reports to police last year. The Government must also bring forward a strengthened a Victim’s Bill that ensures specialist support for victims and survivors of child sexual abuse and deliver a robust Online Safety Bill to ensure tech firms design platforms that have child protection designed in as a legal requirement.
“Everyone has a role to play and if you ever have a concern, please do not hesitate to contact the NSPCC Helpline.”
NSPCC response
The NSPCC wants to see a wholescale change in tackling child sexual abuse that would focus on strengthening:
- prevention (through strong safeguarding policies and procedures in all organisations)
- the recognition of the signs of sexual abuse
- the knowledge of how to report
- the availability of recovery support services; and
- the response from child protection agencies.
It is vital that everyone recognises they have a role to play in keeping children safe from sexual abuse. For further information read NSPCC's CASPAR briefing of the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse’s (IICSA’s) final report, on NSPCC Learning website.
Find more information about how you can help keep children safe in sport by visiting the ‘putting safeguards in place’ section of our website.