Yvette Cooper stated in Parliament that the introduction of a law mandating reporting of child sexual abuse is crucial, highlighting past failures in addressing the issue. She emphasized, "We will make it mandatory to report abuse... making it an offence to fail to report or cover up child sexual abuse." This underscored her commitment to ensuring that professionals are held accountable.
Cooper expressed deep concern over the lost time and the urgency of the situation, remarking, "This measure is something I first called for in response to the reports and failings in Rotherham 10 years ago... But we've lost a decade, and we need to get on with it now." This comment reflects the long-standing struggle for effective child protection.
The legislation will be included in the upcoming crime and policing bill, with Cooper declaring, "Similar plans for a mandatory reporting obligation... were criticized last year... This time we are ensuring that the measures will properly hold professionals accountable for protecting children against abuse." This speaks to the government's resolve to push through meaningful reforms.
Cooper also announced plans for reforms, including the creation of a victims and survivors panel and establishing a core dataset for child abuse. She noted that, "Making grooming an aggravating factor in child sexual offences will also be critical in our fight against such crimes." This indicates a broader strategy for tackling child abuse.
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