Conference hears lessons of Victoria's death

A child protection conference in Ireland was today examining the implications of an inquiry team’s report into the death of Victoria Climbie.

The report investigating the eight year-old’s death in London in February 2000 was published earlier this year and details a catalogue of administrative and professional failures.

Nigel Richardson, a member of the inquiry team, addressed delegates at the conference: ‘Safeguarding Children Everyone’s Business’ in Bunratty, Co Clare.

He highlighted the need for clear lines of accountability for child protection within organisations and the lessons to be learnt from Victoria’s story.

“The level of interest in the Victoria Climbie inquiry has been phenomenal and people want to learn about what happened to her,” said Mr Richardson.

“Although there is a different legal system in England, what happened could happen anywhere and carries important messages for people here.”

He said there was a general feeling amongst the inquiry team, chaired by Lord Laming, that given the interest in the case it was important not to let the work stop at the publication of the report.

“It’s part of our responsibility to share with people what we are trying to say in the report and how they can learn from it,” he said.

“It’s good news that people in Ireland are open to listening and learning and then trying to make the changes we recommend.

“Although what happened to Victoria was in the UK the principles are the same, the things that happened to her could happen anywhere.

“There are children, there are concerns about children and people need to know how to respond.”

Mr Richardson added that many positive changes had been made in the UK since the publication of the report.

“That level of progress transfers itself into practical help and support for staff working across the sector,” he added.

The two-day conference began with Mr Richardson talking the 200 delegates through the report before taking part in various workshops.

Delegates include representatives from each of Ireland’s ten health boards as well as staff from community groups, the Department of Education and housing organisations.

The conference is the first of its kind focusing on this particular subject in the Republic.

“It’s had quite an influence on services in the UK and it’s interesting for people over here to hear about how things can change,” said a spokesman for the Mid-Western Health Board, which organised the event.

Victoria died in London after being abused by her great aunt Marie Therese Kouao and Kouao’s boyfriend Carl Manning.

They are both serving life for murder.

Mr Richardson is the assistant director, children and families, for North Lincolnshire council and is vice-chairman of the local Area Child Protection Committee.