"Coventry second worst city in England for child abuse and neglect"

Nearly 3,000 children in Coventry have been classed as being in need due to abuse or neglect.



Figures show that more than 80 per cent of the 3,618 children assessed as being in need by children’s social services in Coventry have been abused or neglected.

That’s 2,979 children suffering from abuse or neglect in the city, or about one in every 25 kids under the age of 18 - the second highest rate in England, after Southampton.

Coun Ed Ruane, cabinet member for children, said: “We take our responsibility to protect children from abuse and neglect very seriously and we would urge anyone who suspects a child is being abused to report it immediately so the correct measures can be taken.

“In order for abuse and neglect to be tackled effectively it is absolutely necessary to have a clear picture of the size of the task and a lot of work takes place across the city to encourage people to report it.

"These figures will undoubtedly shock people but they clearly show the extent of the issue and also suggest the reporting of abuse is something people feel far more confident in doing.

“Protecting vulnerable children and adults is one of the top priorities for the Council. But it is not something we can do effectively in isolation. We work very closely with partners across the city including the police, education, health services and charities.

"The formation of the MASH (Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub) more than a year ago means that we and our partners are based together and can ensure the vital information needed to protect children from harm can be shared quickly and effectively.

“Everyone has a responsibility to help protect children from abuse or neglect. If you are concerned that a child is at risk call 024 7678 8555.”

So we can't cope with the issues we have, yet Ruanne wants to bring in even more kids!

There is nothing clever about voluntarily stretching facilities so far that they breakdown completely.