Q: A few months ago our senior worker was seriously assaulted by a young person. The club was closed and we were due to re-open after Easter. We are all very apprehensive. The incident was never reported to the police and, although we know who the perpetrator is, our manager has asked us not to make a fuss about it.
I can't imagine a situation where serious assault of any kind should be left unchallenged. Nor can I think of any reason why it might be acceptable for a young person who has perpetrated such a crime not to be held to account. First, it says that the assault was not of any consequence and therefore the victim was not important. Second, it appears to condone the act, since the perpetrator is going unchallenged and unpunished. Third, the message this gives to those young people who know about it is one of collusion - blurring boundaries and undermining relationships based on trust and respect.
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