In a troubling revelation, 245 reports of abuse, both physical and sexual, have emerged from Wings School Cumbria, located in Milnthorpe. These reports were made to Westmorland and Furness Council between 2015 and 2024. The school, operated by the Kedleston Group until its closure in July, faced serious allegations of using excessive force on pupils. An emergency Ofsted inspection in June found that staff employed unsafe physical intervention practices, leading to the school's shutdown.
Former pupil Harvey Benson has been vocal about his experiences, alleging that during physical restraints, some staff members acted with force and violence. Despite reporting these incidents to the school management, Benson claims that his concerns were "brushed under the carpet." This sentiment is echoed by two other former pupils who allege their complaints were not taken seriously, feeling they were perceived as "troublemakers."
Harvey Benson took further steps by making three reports to the police and two to his social worker in 2019, followed by a report to Ofsted in 2022. The Kedleston Group, however, chose not to discuss specific cases but emphasized that "the safety and wellbeing of children and young people is our absolute priority," according to a spokesperson. They claimed that any concerns raised are "always taken very seriously," and reported to relevant authorities for thorough investigation.
The situation at Wings School sparked legal action, with Oakwood Solicitors now handling approximately 30 cases linked to the institution. Solicitor Molly Frost highlighted that the claims being pursued against the Kedleston Group date from 2003 to 2024. Cumbria Police confirmed their ongoing collaboration with several partner agencies as part of the inquiry.
A total of 41 complaints were substantiated out of the 245 reports filed. Yet, the voices of pupils like Terrance Douglass remain haunting. Douglass recalls instances of being attacked by fellow pupils and feeling disbelief from staff when he reported such incidents. This reflects a broader issue highlighted by Professor of Psychology Nadia Wager, who noted that children in care often face skepticism regarding their allegations.
"We have this culture of victim-blaming, and I would say that children in care are victims in some way: It's very much seen as it's their fault that they are there."
An anonymous call for an independent investigation into the case underscores the gravity of the situation.
"This case needs investigating by an independent body."
The Kedleston Group's spokesperson reiterated their commitment to child safety, noting that any identified issues prompt positive and proactive action.
"Should any issue be identified, positive and proactive action is taken."
Despite acknowledging the risk of false allegations against staff, another unattributed source emphasized the importance of a supportive culture within institutions.
"I do understand that there is a risk, as staff, of false allegations being made about you."
"But at the same time, good staff would be part of a culture where they could recognise and appreciate there's a process to go through."
Ofsted has expressed distress over the allegations of abuse from Wings School pupils.
"It is very upsetting to hear allegations of abuse from pupils at Wings School."
The unfolding narrative at Wings School Cumbria highlights critical systemic issues within child care institutions. As these allegations surface, they underscore the pressing need for robust safeguarding measures and transparent accountability in educational environments.
