Strengthening relationships with our partners is the only way we’ll prevent future abuse

National Police Chiefs’ Council Lead for Child Protection, Chief Constable Simon Bailey said:

“I am confident that the police service has significantly improved our response to protecting children in recent years. That does not mean that there aren’t challenges at times in forces in terms of resourcing and working with our partners; our partners in social care, education and health face these challenges too.   It is therefore vitally important that we continue to work together so that the children are given adequate protection and support.  Strengthening these relationships is the only way we’ll prevent future abuse. 

“The concerns raised by Sir Michael Wilshaw demonstrate the weaknesses of siloed inspections of individual agencies with a role in child protection and add to the case for an inspection of all how all agencies work together to protect children.

“I will share the issues raised in this letter with all chief constables.”