UPDDATE: Nottinghamshire children’s home abuse victims get specialist unit

Nottinghamshire County Council approved the establishment of a historical child abuse unit to support people who were abused as children whilst under the care of the council.

This also supports ongoing police investigations into historical child abuse across the county after a surge in the number of allegations.

Steve Edwards, service director for children’s social care, said: “Like all councils across the country, Nottinghamshire has seen a significant increase in historical abuse referrals.

“This has highlighted the need to support survivors of abuse and ensure their needs are effectively supported by the county council, police and health partners.

“The volume of allegations has also placed increasing demands on staff to retrieve both social care records and other information for alleged perpetrators and witnesses.

“In response, we are setting up a historical child abuse unit which will significantly increase our capacity to provide adequate support.”

The council has already paid compensation to 43 victims, costing it or its insurers £425,000 so far.

There are also 60 more claims being dealt with at this moment in time.

The claims relate to the following homes: Amberdale, Beechwood, Bracken House, Cherry Orchard, Ladybrook, Red Tiles, Repton Lodge, Ridge, Risley Hall, Skeby Hall, Sycamore House and Woodnook.