Older children 'need better protection services'

The report by experts from the Children's Society, NSPCC and York University said child protection work was geared towards youngsters aged under 11.

They found shortages of resources in children's social care services meant those aged 11-17 were less effectively safeguarded and called for a review to find out what worked best for the age group to bring more consistency to services.

Eleven to 17-year-olds were often seen as more competent to deal with maltreatment than younger children, including being able to escape abusive situations and seek help, as well as being perceived as more "resilient" – in spite of little supporting evidence.

The researchers made a number of recommendations including increasing services for young people, particularly in the 14–17 age group. They also called for improved support to be made available in schools and for better information for youngsters to enable them to get help.

Children's Society chief executive Bob Reitemeier said last night: "Many older children who we work with are just as vulnerable as younger children, if not more so.

"It's important that we review the way we support these young people and which approach works best for them once they have disclosed maltreatment."