Why we wrote this Allegation Support Pack

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By Sarah Naish, Gareth Griffiths and Jane Mitchell

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At ‘The National Association of Therapeutic Parents’ (part of The Centre of Excellence in Child Trauma), we support thousands of therapeutic parents all over the U.K. Most of these families are helping children who have experienced trauma, and/or have additional needs.

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Over the last four years we have been dismayed by the number of allegations against therapeutic parents that are mishandled, delayed unnecessarily, fall outside of regulations and leave those being investigated isolated and terrified.

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We know that this has had major negative impacts on both the lives of the parents, and the children in their care.

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Although we are aware that some Councils adhere to guidelines and legislation, supporting families well through this difficult process, sadly there are many unskilled Local Authorities who have failed to implement even the most basic training around the impact of trauma, or to adhere to regulations regarding timescales and communication with the parents. This has led to;

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• children being moved prematurely and unnecessarily

• family breakdown

• serious mental health problems

• suicide

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At COECT, we recognise that some allegations are of course founded, and it is essential to take action to protect children from further harm, but whatever the circumstances of the allegation you are facing, you will all need independent support, and you are entitled to receive it.