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Rape Crisis England and Wales is calling for a public inquiry into sexual assault and abuse within mental health units after a Sky News investigation revealed a catalog of sexual abuse complaints.
Sky News/Independent Patient 11 Podcast Survey Since 2019, we have discovered around 20,000 new complaints of sexual abuse, harassment and rape involving both patients and staff at more than 30 mental health trusts in England.
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Rape Crisis England and Wales (RCE) described the situation as “appalling” and “alarming”.
In addition to calling for a public inquiry, the government is also calling on the government to appoint a minister in charge of women’s safety in mental health and women’s wards, and to make provisions for victims to come forward with evidence.
Ciara Bergman, CEO of RCE, said: “Without major intervention and leadership at the highest levels, sexual violence and abuse is simply inevitable, when it is absolutely preventable. “I’m concerned that it could lead to acceptance.”
“For many years, we have raised concerns about broader safety issues for those within our health care system.
“It is worrying that even after the publication of the important CQC (Care Quality Commission) report on sexual safety in 2018, little seems to have changed.
“Women and girls have the right to feel safe wherever they are, but especially when they are most vulnerable.”
Our investigation reveals hundreds of rape and sexual assault complaints about female patients that were not reported to the police, and how trusts are largely unable to apply government-backed protections in 2020. However, the Minister of Health said there was suspicion of psychological abuse.The health settings look like this Some of the major reviews.
It was revealed in February that NHS The UK did not enforce safeguarding standards as mandatory across trusts.
In a statement, the RCE highlighted concerns over a “lack of clarity” on the part of government and health leaders about ultimate responsibility for sexual safety in mental health units.
“There is no quick fix to this scandalous situation,” said former patient Alexis Quinn. The podcast investigation was sparked by his escape from psychiatric treatment following two sexual assault allegations.
“As the RCE suggests, it will require political will, leadership and co-created solutions aimed at positive cultural change.”
The Department of Health and Human Services did not respond to RCE’s general questions.
A spokesperson said in a statement: “The department has zero tolerance and is clear that the NHS must work to stop sexual assaults occurring within NHS services and facilities.”
“We are clear that patients should not have to share sleeping facilities with others of the opposite sex and should have access to segregated bathroom and toilet facilities, and we are committed to ensuring that NHS trusts comply with these measures. I hope so.
“We work closely with the NHS to ensure that all people receiving treatment in mental health facilities receive safe, high-quality care and are treated with dignity and respect. The research agency has launched a national survey into mental health “inpatient settings.” ”
read more:
NHS mental health care ‘collapsed’ amid ‘unsafe’ mixed wards, bed shortages and inadequate safety measures
Inside a “mental health bank” that helps children in “crisis”
An NHS spokesperson said: “More than 250 organizations signed up to the first-ever NHS Sexual Safety Charter, which was launched last year in partnership with health systems and experienced people, giving staff clear reporting mechanisms, training and We are providing support and ensuring safety.” We have a zero-tolerance approach to sexual misconduct.
“The NHS is committed to ensuring that all those who provide services protect patients, report all incidents of sexual violence and take appropriate action with the criminal justice system and the protection agencies where harm occurs. and that there is a moral obligation.”
If you have been affected by this story, or believe you have been sexually abused in inpatient mental health treatment, please contact the Rape Crisis England and Wales helpline on 0808 500 2222.
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