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A leading UK lawyer who has represented many of the ‘survivors’ – those youngsters who were abused whilst in care locally – has welcomed the long-awaited report on the childcare system.
Alan Collins believes the report marks “a momentous day for child protection in both Jersey and the UK”, and that its recommendations “provide a strong path and template for the future.”
He stresses the important thing now is to implement those recommendations: “Ahead of the report, The Jersey Care Leavers’ Association, whose members I represent, wanted to see an independent body appointed to oversee child protection. The report’s recommendation to establish a Children’s Commissioner is therefore welcomed, and I urge the States of Jersey to enact this as a matter of urgency.”
He goes on to say: “The Inquiry has thrown down the gauntlet to the States of Jersey, lawmakers and politicians to make serious changes to child protection fit for the 21st Century. The Report comprehensively addresses a series of issues that were a concern, and in many cases remain to be so.”
Mr Collins is also full of praise for those who gave evidence: “The findings… are a tribute to the courage of the survivors - not just those who came forward to give evidence to the Inquiry, but also to those who gave evidence to the police as part of Operation Rectangle. Were it not for the survivors and their bravery, Operation Rectangle and subsequent investigations would never have seen the successful prosecution of offenders or the creation of the Inquiry in the first place.
“Of course, it was impossible for the Inquiry to determine every dispute and answer every question, but it has clearly shown there existed a complete lack of respect for children in care, leading to their exploitation and abuse by those charged with caring for them.”
The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children has also given its response.
A spokesman for the charity says: “Appallingly children who spoke out about abuse were not listened to and those in authority failed to act as part of a culture of fear. Recommendations to improve Jersey’s care systems were not just missed but were ignored. The report’s recommendations must now be implemented without delay.”
Commenting on the report, Police Chief Mike Boron, says: "This has been a very thorough inquiry and SoJP and the other agencies involved need to consider and embrace the recommendations made within it.
It is clear multi-agency responses to allegations of abuse in the past were not of the high standards we expect today - important lessons have been learned.
The SoJP will continue to play a full and active role in protecting the most vulnerable in our community, including children and young people. We can only do that in partnership – no one generally has the complete picture – this remains ‘everyone’s business.’
We now see more victims coming forward than ever before, which demonstrates an increased trust and confidence in the criminal justice system. Victims of historical abuse continue to come forward – perpetrators are held to account and prosecuted.
We will continue to listen to victims of historical abuse and where feasible bring offenders to justice – whilst also focussing very much on today’s victims and the prevention of tomorrows."
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