Children's allegations against adults rises

The most recent Portsmouth Safeguarding Children Board (PSCB) report showed that there were 32 per cent more allegations made between April 2017 and March 2018 than the previous year, with 238 received.

Of these, the biggest increase was in children's social care, from nine to 20, and against foster carers which grew from 17 to 39.

Some areas saw fewer allegations. Police received one allegation, compared to three previously.

A spokesman for the PSCB said the overall increase was due to a greater knowledge of the role of the city's local authority designated officer (LADO).

He said: '˜The increase in notifications to the LADO from agencies indicates an increased awareness of the role and the need to notify.

'˜It is positive that agencies will consult and seek advice from the LADO, and this is likely to result in children within Portsmouth being better protected where potential safeguarding concerns are identified.'

It was also noted in the report that: '˜The data for children's social care staff has been impacted by multiple allegations from one young person against several staff in one residential children's home.

'˜These allegations were all found to be false, unfounded, or did not meet LADO criteria.'

Of the total allegations only 6.3 per cent were substantiated. In 2016 and 2017 this was 9.5 per cent.

If someone is concerned that a child or young person has suffered harm, neglect or abuse they are advised to contact the Portsmouth multi-agency safeguarding hub directly on (023) 9268 8793.

Or visit portsmouthscb.org.uk.

To report abuse to a vulnerable adult call (023) 9268 0810 or visit portsmouthsab.uk