Disabled children could be at risk of exploitation by criminal gangs, warns new research

Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. One parent said she kept asking her son’s school to help get him tested for ADHD, but claimed it all went downhill when he was put in alternative provision, which provides education for children who can’t go to a mainstream school. open image in gallery Long waits for diagnosis and support could be fuelling increased levels of isolation and exclusion for SEND children in schools More than 1.5 million children in England and 75,000 in Wales have special educational needs, with the vast majority in mainstream education. One parent explained: “ just regarded him as being a problem.” A common trigger for SEND children being exploited was when they were excluded from mainstream school and sent to a pupil referral unit or alternative provision, researchers at Manchester Metropolitan University, the University of Portsmouth and Portsmouth Council said. NICE guidelines are that substance misuse and mental health issues should be treated in parallel.” Professor of childhood studies and lead research at Manchester Metropolitan University, Anita Franklin, said: “The research starkly indicates the need for parents and children and young people with SEND to be listened to when raising concerns about unmet needs and treated with paramount importance when they raise concerns about exploitation.” The research project was funded by the Modern Slavery and Human Rights Policy and Evidence Centre.