As we've mentioned, children with disabilities may have limited communication or lack of access to an appropriate vocabulary. This may make it difficult for them to tell others what is happening.

It is also important to recognise that communication systems may lack the language or terminology necessary to enable the child to disclose abuse.

Active steps are therefore needed to remove barriers and promote communication. This means including other people who are familiar with a child's individual communication methods – for example, teaching assistants, parents, and carers.