Barnardos is extremely concerned and alarmed by the findings of today’s study from UCD’s School of Social Policy, which show that children and young people in the care of the State are being targeted for sexual exploitation. The State has an obligation to protect children in their care from dangers such as sexual exploitation. The findings of this important study are damning and show the State is failing in this fundamental obligation.
We know from experience that children and young people in residential care often have multiple vulnerabilities and histories that involve considerable trauma. They are often at an extremely elevated risk of exploitation given these histories. Therefore, it is essential that the State provides them with appropriate support and protection from exploitation, both in terms of accommodation and supportive staff working closely with them to develop trusting and caring relationships.
In the immediate term, to ensure stronger capabilities in identifying young people at risk of sexual exploitation, Tusla and other agencies must invest more resources into training and upskilling staff. This will enable them to respond as fast as possible to support and protect young people at risk.
Barnardos also supports the development of a national policy on the issue – led by the Department of Children with considerable involvement of the Department of Justice.
ENDS
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