November 2016
An Exploration of Knowledge about Child Abuse linked to Faith and Belief
Press Release: New Research Exploring Child Abuse Linked to Faith or Belief (30 Nov 2016)
This ground-breaking new research investigates current knowledge and raises awareness of child abuse linked to faith or belief. Internationally, cases of child abuse linked to faith or belief continue to cause concern. In the United Kingdom, high profile cases such as Victoria Climbié and Kristy Bamu have raised awareness of the need to develop child protection in this area (DfE, 2012). This research is timely and important in providing a foundation on which to build more effective identification of cases, policy and intervention.
Only 33% of professionals and members of community and faith-based organisations are confident they could identify indicators of faith or belief linked to child abuse. A recent survey questioned over 1,300 professionals and members of community and faith-based organisations on their understanding of faith or belief linked to child abuse specifically looking at their ability to identify instances of this type of abuse and their ability to respond and deal with cases professionally. The results illustrate the need for frontline professionals to be properly prepared and equipped to respond and deal with cases.
This research was commissioned by the National Working Group on Child Abuse Linked to Faith or Belief and uses a multi-partner collaborative approach. It is led by Manchester Metropolitan University academics Dr Lisa Oakley and Dr Kathryn Kinmond in partnership with The Victoria Climbié Foundation UK (VCF) and Churches Child Protection Advisory Service (CCPAS).
An Exploration of Knowledge about Child Abuse Linked to Faith or Belief (PDF)
If you re-use this information please ensure that you reference this document as follows:
Oakley, Kinmond, Dioum & Humphreys (2016) An exploration of knowledge about child abuse linked to faith and belief
A further analysis of the findings is anticipated during 2017, to include full research report and on-going practitioner support.
See also:
Practitioner and communities’ awareness of CALFB: Child Abuse Linked to Faith or Belief (Child Abuse and Neglect)
Child Abuse linked to Faith or Belief: an important issue for counselling practice – British Journal of Guidance and Counselling (published 13 Sep 2017)
National Working Group on Child Abuse Linked to Faith or Belief – and resources
Victoria Climbié Foundation – Protecting Children across Faiths
Open Letter to Inspectorates for Children’s Services and the Crown Prosecution Service