Child safety strategy published

7 Feb 08
The government has launched a plan setting out how it will meet its new Public Service Agreement on improving children's safety.

08 February 2008

The government has launched a plan setting out how it will meet its new Public Service Agreement on improving children's safety.

The 'Staying Safe Action Plan', published on February 5, outlines measures to keep children safe from neglect, abuse, accidents, bullying, crime and antisocial behaviour, and to provide them with a safe and stable home environment.

It follows the Children's Plan, published by the Department for Children, Schools and Families in December, and sets out steps for departments across government. But a DCSF spokeswoman confirmed that no specific funding had been announced with the plan.

Launching the document, Schools Secretary Ed Balls highlighted measures aimed at making it easier for teachers to organise school trips safely, but without fear of legal action in case of accidents. 'We should not let a fear of a compensation culture prevent pupils from learning outside the classroom,' he said.

The document includes a commitment to publish research on joint working between children's and housing services, new guidance on child employment and on bullying and plans for a new 'safeguarding unit' for voluntary organisations working with children.

It also includes a number of government initiatives designed to meet the recommendations of the 2004 Bichard inquiry report into the Soham murders, such as the new Independent Safeguarding Authority, which will vet those working with children and vulnerable adults.

Shaun Kelly, child protection manager at the children's charity NCH, welcomed the strategy but called on the government to focus on the most vulnerable children.

He said: 'It is important to remember that some groups are more at risk than others. NCH would like to see this strategy focus on chronic neglect, safeguarding the needs of children and young people with disabilities, more services for child survivors of sexual abuse, and the needs of looked-after children and young carers.'

Balls' announcement came a day after the Conservative Party published its own report, More ball games, as part of its childhood review. The document – which carries a disclaimer saying it is not party policy – emphasises the need to make outdoor space safer for children, increase access to sports activities, and to tackle bullying.

 

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