MP lends his support

Local MP, David Rutley, hosted an NSPCC event in Parliament highlighting the need to provide abused children with the crucial support that they need.

Attendees heard about the aims of the NSPCC’s ‘It’s Time’ campaign and met young people who shared their views on why the campaign matters to them.

Over 30,000 people have signed the NSPCC’s ‘It’s Time’ petition, urging the Department of Health and NHS England to count the number of abused children in need of mental health support. The NSPCC is concerned at difficulties assessing who needs help and how to commission services – meaning some children are left without any help at all.

Every year the equivalent of two children in every primary school class experience abuse. Research indicates 90% of children who are abused at an early age will develop mental health problems by the time they are 18.

Over 16,000 NSPCC supporters contacting their MP to raise the profile of support for affected children. In addition, nearly half of the Police and Crime Commissioners elected in May have pledged to use their victims fund to improve support for the abused youngsters.

Peter Wanless, NSPCC CEO, said: “We are grateful for David’s support with this Parliamentary event. If we don’t know exactly how many children are missing out, we can’t do everything we can to help. So it’s essential we find out. We know how life-changing the right support can be. It can make the difference between a life defined by abuse or a child reaching their potential. So we have handed to No. 10 Downing Street this petition calling on the Government to collect local data from health professionals, social workers and the police, on the number of children who need help. It’s time to stand up for children who have been abused. It’s time to give them a voice.”

Speaking after the event, David said: “I actively support the NSPCC’s work in and around Macclesfield. Improving mental health outcomes for young people is a real priority for me. It’s clear that abused children should have the best possible access to the mental health services that many of them will need to overcome the trauma of their abuse. I will continue to work with the NSPCC and other charities to help address these important issues in the months ahead.”