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Children with complex needs and disabilities are children first and foremost. This means that they should be afforded the same opportunities, rights and protections as all other children and young people.

Disabled children and young people can be more vulnerable to being harmed through abuse compared to their non-disabled peers. Safeguarding these children requires a heightened awareness of their unique vulnerabilities, individuality, and specific needs.

It is crucial when considering whether a disabled child or young person has been or is at risk of abuse and/or neglect that the disability does not mask or deter appropriate investigation of child protection concerns. There should be no distinction made in acting on concerns where a child is disabled.

There are many barriers to children telling adults about abuse, some common reasons relate to embarrassment, shame, guilt and distrust, a lack of understanding about what has happened or fearing consequences of disclosure.