Sharp increase in children at risk of abuse in Angus

The number of Angus children at risk of abuse has increased by over a third.

Since 2012, Angus Council has recorded a 38% jump in the number of children being added to its child protection register with 94 children having been named as being “at continuing risk” of physical, emotional or sexual abuse or neglect.

Officials conducted a record 312 investigations last year, which resulted in 132 new names being added to the council’s protection register.

A council spokeswoman said this rapid spike in potential child abuse cases is a positive outcome because it means more people than ever are coming forward to report potential mistreatment.

Margo Williamson, the council’s strategic director for people, added: “All staff have a responsibility for the care and welfare of pupils along with the promotion of their personal safety.

“They have a key role in creating physically and emotionally safe environments and in recognising and monitoring situations when children have been, or are at risk of being, harmed.”