Children with Disabilities

28. Disclosing Abuse

If a child with disabilities is dependent on an abuser, it may not be safe for the child to disclose abuse. This should be taken into account during an investigation. Disclosure may be impossible for the following reasons:

• If the child depends on the carer for personal care, essential treatment, medication or communication assistance etc
• If the child has a professional or personal relationship with the abuser
• If the carer is in a position of power over the child or in delivering the care package

If disclosure is seen as essential before action can be taken, this in itself can put the child at risk. Different investigative methods may need to be pursued, and possibly greater reliance placed on other evidence to inform risk assessment and the balance of probability of abuse taking place. (Blackpool Council, 2024c)