;

17th September 1999

The following is the text of a response from the NSPCC, supported by The Scout Association, to The Home Office announcement concerning new guidance for preventing abuse of trust and Codes of Conduct to protect against sexual activity with relationships of trust.

NSPCC SUPPORTS NEW GOVERNMENT GUIDANCE TO PROTECT VULNERABLE YOUNG PEOPLE

Having worked closely with the Government in the drafting of this guidance, the NSPCC is pleased to support the Government's initiative to prevent the sexual exploitation of 16 and 17 year olds by those entrusted with care.

NSPCC Director of Public Policy Phillip Noyes says, "The NSPCC's experience is that many predatory adults will specifically target young people who are 16 and 17 for sexual relationships, especially those made vulnerable by previous abuse. They know that, even if they are caught, they can argue that the young person gave their consent.

"Some adults will intentionally seek positions of trust so that they can use their power or influence to coerce those in their care into inappropriate sexual relationships. We hope this guidance will help protect these young people from adults who abuse the trust placed in them."

The NSPCC believes it is essential that it is made clear exactly what behaviour is unacceptable, what procedures are in place and what sanctions can be expected. A code of conduct will ensure that at all stages - in employment procedures, behavioural policies and disciplinary procedures - an adult in a position of trust will know what is appropriate. The existence and wide promotion of codes of conduct will give reassurance to parents of 16 and 17 year olds that their children are safe.

In a supporting statement from The Scout Association, Mrs. Margaret Poland, Child Protection Co-ordinator said, "We already have our own relevant codes and principles within The Scout Association governing the welfare of young people and their protection within a relationship of trust. These were created some years ago and further guidelines that aim to protect adult leaders having responsibility and authority over youth members, and the young for whom they care, are to be welcomed.

'In the light of the Home Office's recommendations, we will now be reviewing our principles of good practice and examine how a code on abuse of trust can complement our existing guidance and codes of conduct sexual and other abuse. A principle consideration in the implementation of future action will be to help young people develop a fuller understanding of their rights and how they can discuss concerns or receive advice in confidence." (end)

Note: Text of the Home Office announcement should appear shortly on http://www.coi.gov.uk/coi/depts/gho/gho.html