NSPCC: Calls for more therapy for children in care

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Monday, 26, Nov 2007 12:00

The Children and Young People Bill is in danger of seriously failing children in care warns the NSPCC today, Monday 26 November.

The Bill, which has its second reading today, fails to ensure that abused children will get vital therapy.

Almost two in three (62%) young people in care are there because of abuse or neglect. However, their routine health check is not rigorous enough to identify whether they are in need of therapeutic help. As a result, many young people are not getting essential therapeutic services which could help them overcome abuse.

The NSPCC is calling for specialist therapeutic assessment to form part of a statutory routine health check when children go into care.

NSPCC head of policy and public affairs Natalie Cronin said: “The UK Government is taking abused children into care without properly assessing their emotional needs.

“Only young people displaying extreme signs of depression and distress are likely to receive mental health services but the impact of abuse rarely presents such textbook symptoms.

“A child who has been abused will usually try and lock away all the shame, guilt and terror they are feeling. A routine health check will not identify internalised trauma. No one will know they are suffering and so no one will be there to help until they reach breaking point.”

The NSPCC is also concerned that there are not enough therapeutic services to treat all children and young people who need specialist help to overcome abuse.

Natalie Cronin continued: “Without treatment, the long-term side effects of abuse can continue well into adulthood and include anxiety, depression and difficulty functioning at work. We are leaving children who have already suffered so much to shoulder this burden alone.”

The NSPCC is also calling on the Government to ensure that all children in care have access to Independent Advocates to help young people navigate the social care system. Independent Advocates ensure children have access to services and allow the child’s voice to be heard in their care planning.

Natalie Cronin continued: “When children enter the care system they often feel angry, confused and alone. Independent advocates give children a voice in the adult world of social services.”