When dealing with matters involving local authorities, or the police, and when the outcome is vitally important then we would always suggest you appoint a professional legal representative, Lestons would be honoured to assist you in this matter. If you are being accused of suspected child abuse it is important to know your rights and get advice before you act.
If you have been arrested for an offence associated with child abuse you are entitled to legal representation. If you cannot afford legal representation you will be offered free and independent legal advice, however, you are at liberty to appoint ourselves, or a solicitor to act on your behalf.
Arrested on an accusation of child abuse:
If you have been accused or you are suspected of child abuse, the police may arrest you or ask you to come to the police station voluntarily for an interview. In this case, the police should advise you of your legal rights and give you the opportunity of seeing independent legal advice from a solicitor.
How to find out if someone has a record of child sex offences:
There is a national scheme called Sarah’s Law, as well as the child sex offender disclosure scheme, which allows anyone to make a formal request to the police to disclose whether a person has a record of child sex offences. These are often requested when the person will be in contact with children as part of a job, for example, a job in care or a public setting. The police can disclose this information to parents, carers and guardians if it is relevant and appropriate.
If a person or company requests for this information to be disclosed, it must stay confidential and can only be used to safeguard children from sex offenders. Once a person receives the information, they will have to sign an agreement to keep the information confidential. In event of the agreement being breached legal action may be taken.
Further guidance and information on the scheme can be found using the link below.
www.gov.uk/government/publications/child-sex-offender-disclosure-scheme-guidance
As a parent, do I have to speak to Child Services if they suspect my child is being abused?
As a parent, you do not have to speak to Children Services, but it is highly advised you cooperate with their investigations. If you refuse to cooperate as a parent, Children’s Services are likely to take further action on the matter. They cannot ignore any allegations of suspected abuse, and therefore it is likely that they need to speak to you to ensure the health and safety of your child.
If you suspect you might be abusing a child:
You may be concerned you are abusing a child if you fall into the following category.
- Have addiction problems which mean you are unable to provide the appropriate care for a child
- Have anger management issues
- Have sexual thoughts about children (including accessing child pornography)
- Behave inappropriately with a child
If you fall into any of these categories, you must get help immediately. Several organisations provide help for people in your circumstances. It is important to note that if any of these organisations suspect a child in your care is in danger, they must report the matter to the local authority or the police.