Police Investigate Abuse Allegations at Residential School for Vulnerable Pupils

Cumbria Police is conducting an investigation into a residential school for vulnerable pupils following allegations of abuse. The BBC understands these claims pertain to Wings School Cumbria in Milnthorpe, which closed on 2 July. In June, certain pupils informed Ofsted inspectors that they experienced “inappropriate use of restrictive physical intervention and, at times, sustaining injuries inflicted by staff.” A spokeswoman for Kedleston Group, the entity that operates the school, stated: “We are fully co-operating with the ongoing external investigation and we will continue to assist however we can.” Wings School Cumbria functioned as an independent residential institution for students aged nine to 17, catering to those with social, emotional, and mental health challenges, as well as specific learning difficulties. The allegations against the school were disclosed on Tuesday as part of an investigation by ITV News Border. Last month, a former pupil from Wings School contacted the BBC via email, alleging they had been a victim of physical assault, verbal abuse, and bullying by staff members. They informed the BBC, “I witnessed numerous instances of other children being assaulted, bullied, and emotionally abused,” and further added, “Children were often locked in rooms during Ofsted inspections to hide the true conditions of the school.” Ofsted’s emergency inspection, conducted in June, reported that the “majority of pupils who spoke to inspectors said that they did not have an adult in school who they trust to confide in with any worries or concerns.” The inspection report further noted: “Some leaders and staff use restrictive physical intervention on pupils as a strategy for discipline and compliance, not solely when pupils or staff are at risk of harm. “The school’s physical intervention practice is unsafe with pupils subject to excessive force and unsafe holds.” Inspectors also stated that the school was “not following its own policy and procedures for reporting and recording the use of restrictive physical intervention.” Kedleston Group commented: “At this time, and to our knowledge, no claim of misconduct relating to any member of staff has resulted in further action being taken by the authorities.” They added: “The safety and wellbeing of children and young people is a responsibility we take very seriously. “In relation to physical intervention, it is our organisation-wide policy that this should only ever be used as a last resort and only to keep a child, or those around them, safe.” The group further stated: “Where concerns are raised, these are reported to all relevant authorities and fully investigated. Should any issue be identified, positive and proactive action is taken.” Cumbria Police confirmed that its investigation is being overseen by its major incident team, in close collaboration with several partner agencies. The police force indicated that its inquiry aims to identify any individuals who are alleged victims of abuse by employees during their attendance at the school. A spokeswoman for the force remarked: “This is a far-reaching investigation which spans many individuals and a number of agencies and one we expect to take some time to establish the facts. “At this point we can’t give any details about findings or specific allegations; our sole focus is ensuring any victims are being fully supported throughout this difficult time.” The force encouraged anyone possessing information to come forward. For updates, BBC Cumbria can be followed on X, Facebook, Nextdoor, and Instagram. Story ideas may be sent to northeastandcumbria@bbc.co.uk. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external sites. Information regarding its approach to external linking is available.