Proposed changes to how child sex abuse allegations are handled

There was a major announcement yesterday by Keir Starmer, Director of Public Prosecutions, suggesting changes as to how allegations of sex abuse should be handled. Broadly this came down to potential victims being treated more seriously from the first moment allegations are made. This is clearly a hugely important issue and any fundamental changes in the perception of victims' credibility could affect any number of areas in which you may work. 

I'm old enough to remember the investigations on Orkney in the early 90's and distinctly recall the distress that dozens of families endured when children were removed without any hard evidence of abuse occurring. I've heard it said by student social workers and others how difficult it can sometimes be to do nothing, even when you've nothing but an unsubstantiated feeling that something isn't right in a family setting.

The newly proposed guidelines suggest a definite shift back towards 'let's assume potential victims are telling us the truth', which many have suggested is a clear reaction to what happened with Jimmy Savile.

The BBC covered the story in great depth yesterday so if you need some background information I suggest that's where you go. It's balanced reporting and makes the point that although many have welcomed the proposed changes, the spectre of being falsely accused can also ruin lives.

This is a tremendously difficult issue and any of you who work with children or adults in this area have my admiration and support.

The BBC coverage can be found here.