NSPCC chief warns of children at risk of abuse in new coronavirus curbs

Peter Wanless, the chief executive of the NSPCC, says there had been a “sharp increase” of reports of abuse against children
PA

Urgent action must be taken to protect children from the increased risk of abuse during the new wave of coronavirus restrictions, the head of the biggest children’s charity warns today.

Peter Wanless, the chief executive of the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty against Children, says there had been a “sharp increase” of reports of abuse against children in their own homes since the pandemic began.

He warns there was also a heightened risk of emotional and mental health problems being caused by the impact of restrictions and a growing danger from paedophiles online as children spend more time on the internet in isolation or lockdown.

Mr Wanless adds that a “comprehensive recovery plan for children” will also be needed once the worst of the pandemic has passed to help the many young people rebuild their lives.

His call, in an article for the Evening Standard today, follows concern that the welfare of children suffered during the lockdown this year as home visits to the most vulnerable were curtailed.

“We must act now to make sure that our children are protected from the increased risk of abuse,” he writes.

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