Child abuse inquiry must have more power

In response to the Government's announcement on the independent inquiry into child abuse, Matthew Reed, Chief Executive of The Children's Society, said:

"The Government's announcement today that the inquiry's work will continue while it takes steps to find a new chair is critical given the delays so far.

"It is crucial that this inquiry is given the power it needs to investigate abuse, past and present. This is only possible if it has the authority to compel individuals and organisations to appear and give evidence.

"Those who have been abused must be consulted throughout the process to make sure their needs and voices are at its heart. This should include a sensitive and appropriate approach involving children. Victims and survivors must have full confidence in the process and in the chair who leads the inquiry."

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Notes to editors

• The Children's Society has helped change children's stories for over a century. We expose injustice and address hard truths, tackling child poverty and neglect head-on. We fight for change based on the experiences of every child we work with and the solid evidence we gather. Through our campaigning, commitment and care, we are determined to give every child in this country the greatest possible chance in life.