Description
In Cleveland in 1987 a medical diagnosis of child sexual abuse was made in 127 children, resulting in their removal from home. The consequent intense scrutiny and public criticism around the case, together with the subsequent Butler-Sloss inquiry, resulted in the medical evidence being discredited, giving rise to a system which relies on children to speak out about their abuse. This book argues that this 1987 crisis continues to shape child protection today, resulting in opportunities to protect children being missed. Now re-issued with a substantial new introduction and concluding reflections, this book provides the only account by key professionals directly involved in the Cleveland cases, allowing readers to understand what really took place in Cleveland and why it continues to matter today. It analyses the many failures to address the plight of sexually abused children and makes constructive suggestions for the way forward to provide more effective interventions for children at risk.
About the Author
Sue Richardson is a psychotherapist in independent practice. In her former post of Child Abuse Consultant to Cleveland Social Services Department, she was a key figure in events leading to the Butler-Sloss Inquiry. Heather Bacon was a Consultant Clinical Psychologist, specialising in work with children and families for over 30 years, now retired. She worked in Cleveland throughout the 1987 crisis.
Reviews
"This updated and expanded edition has current relevance for those striving to protect children from sexual crime who, like the Cleveland professionals, similarly witness the silencing of abused children and face brick walls of denial, disbelief and interference with their practice. The authors, who in 30 years have never ceased to proactively protect children, provide direction and inspiration to those following in their footsteps." Liz Davies, London Metropolitan University
"By shedding light behind the headlines in Cleveland, this book highlights ill-informed societal discourses about sexual abuse... The new additions show the relevance of analysis of this high-profile case, and its insights should significantly inform current efforts to curtail abuse." Elly Hanson, Clinical Psychologist
Book Information
ISBN 9781447350286
Author Sue Richardson
Format Paperback
Page Count 288
Imprint Policy Press
Publisher Bristol University Press
About the Author
Sue Richardson is a psychotherapist in independent practice. In her former post of Child Abuse Consultant to Cleveland Social Services Department, she was a key figure in events leading to the Butler-Sloss Inquiry. Heather Bacon was a Consultant Clinical Psychologist, specialising in work with children and families for over 30 years, now retired. She worked in Cleveland throughout the 1987 crisis.
Reviews
"This updated and expanded edition has current relevance for those striving to protect children from sexual crime who, like the Cleveland professionals, similarly witness the silencing of abused children and face brick walls of denial, disbelief and interference with their practice. The authors, who in 30 years have never ceased to proactively protect children, provide direction and inspiration to those following in their footsteps." Liz Davies, London Metropolitan University
"By shedding light behind the headlines in Cleveland, this book highlights ill-informed societal discourses about sexual abuse... The new additions show the relevance of analysis of this high-profile case, and its insights should significantly inform current efforts to curtail abuse." Elly Hanson, Clinical Psychologist
Book Information
ISBN 9781447350286
Author Sue Richardson
Format Paperback
Page Count 288
Imprint Policy Press
Publisher Bristol University Press
