Daily roundup 17 December: Sexual abuse, children's health, and Narey review

MPs have highlighted the need to tackle sexual offences against 16- and 17-year-olds going unreported every year. The Children's Society is calling for the law to be strengthened to provide better support for vulnerable teenagers, and powers for police to intervene when 16- and 17-year-olds are being targeted or groomed for exploitation.


A new government strategy to get more people involved in sport and fitness will target children as young as five. The BBC reports sports minister Tracey Crouch announced the plans after a four-month consultation with various bodies.


The education select committee is to hold a one-off hearing on 27 January 2016 into the government's independent review of children's residential care. The committee will hear from Sir Martin Narey, who was appointed last month to lead the review, which will look at the role of children's homes and how they can be improved. Short written evidence should be submitted to the committee by 15 January. 


Children as young as 10 have been investigated by West Midlands Police for “sexting”, it has emerged. The Birmingham Mail reports the force has investigated more than 70 under-18s for making, possessing or distributing indecent pictures in the last three years.


A railway station in the London borough of Bromley has become a sanctuary for young people looking to escape crime and violence. The News Shopper reports that Orpington station location to be given Safe Haven status thanks to a grant of £6,000 from train operator Southeastern. The scheme sees places such as shops and public buildings offer their premises as a place of refuge for young people feeling threatened.


The National Network for the Education of Care Leavers has launched a service aimed at helping to tackle the low progression of young people from care into higher education. It will look to build stronger links between further education and higher education staff, and professionals working with looked-after children.