The MP for Washington and Sunderland West has backed the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children’s (NSPCC) It’s Time campaign.
The national campaign is calling for increased funding for services supporting children who have suffered abuse and want more research into the scale of the problem, as well as what type of support works best.
It is also calling for the Government to produce clear guidelines on when a child should be offered therapeutic support.
Ms Sharon Hodgson, MP for Washington and Sunderland West, attended a NSPCC reception in Parliament.
The Sunderland MP said: “It is important that we work together, both here in Parliament and with the wider public, so that we can develop a child-centred strategy that ensures children and young people are resilient to the harmful abuse they may be victim to in the formative years of their lives.
“That is why I welcome and support the NSPCC’s It’s Time campaign which calls on the Government to offer more support to children and young people, set out a clearer vision on what we can do to support abused children and improve evidence for therapeutic support.
“Instead of letting abused children languish, we should be offering them the support necessary to lead happy and fulfilling lives, free of abuse.”
Karen Bradley MP, Minister for Preventing Abuse and Exploitation, and Rt. Hon Alistair Burt MP, Minister for Community and Social Care, joined the NSPCC CEO in speaking at the launch.
Peter Wanless, NSPCC chief executive, said: “Every child’s bravery to come forward must be met with the right support. And for many of our most vulnerable children that support is not available.”
Mr Wanless also welcomed the Government’s commitment to invest £1.4 billion into children’s mental health services.
The NSPCC chief executive added: “This money can only be spent once; it is crucial that a portion is made available for abused children.
“We know that Government recognises the importance of this issue, but without a clear commitment to children who have experienced abuse, we worry that they will continue to fall by the wayside.”