19 Jul Increasing fears over children in Essex being left home alone
by Jacqui Tucker
The NSPCC has referred an increasing number of cases to the police and children’s services in Essex after receiving calls and emails from members of the public worried about children left home alone.
Worried callers to the NSPCC Helpline have reported children being left alone overnight and young children left to feed themselves and use dangerous kitchen equipment.
One caller who phoned the NSPCC Helpline said: “They’re leaving the kids alone at all hours of the day, from early in the morning until late at night.”
Whilst NSPCC Chief Executive Peter Wanless said: “Deciding if a child is ready to be left on their own can be a very difficult decision and the summer holidays can be a difficult time for parents and carers as they face increasing childcare pressures”
