New Guidelines on Speedy Handling of Allegations of Abuse in Schools
Teachers today welcomed new government guidelines on the speedy handling of allegations of abuse.
The advice - announced this morning by the education secretary, Ruth Kelly - says councils, schools, police and prosecutors should deal with allegations against teachers more quickly, and that accused teachers should not be automatically suspended from work.
Staff will be entitled to confidentiality while cases are being investigated, and possible legal action against malicious accusations could be considered. The guidelines will apply in England and Wales. Guardian News Report BBC News Report DfES