The Welsh Assembly Government has published new guidelines on how schools should handle allegations of child abuse. It is part of the Assembly's response to recommendations made following one of the worst cases of child abuse in Welsh history.
The guidance makes clear that all allegations of child abuse must be referred to social services and the police. Further guidance on school governing bodies' complaints procedures will be issued in the coming months.
In July, the Welsh children's commissioner, Peter Clarke, published the Clywch report into allegations of sexual abuse involving drama teacher John Owen at a Pontypridd school (Children Now, 7-13 July). It accused Owen and Mid Glamorgan local education authority of attempting to cover up abuse claims by pupils at Ysgol Gyfun Rhydfelen.
Clarke also recommended four independent tribunals be established to hear allegations of abuse.
- www.wales.gov.uk.
