MP joins fight against child abuse

Local MP Tim Farron has pledged his support to tackle child abuse and neglect across the country.

The South Lakes MP has endorsed the 70-30 Campaign, an initiative which aims to reduce child maltreatment by 70% by 2030.

Launched and led by the WAVE Trust charity, the campaign defines child maltreatment as abuse, neglect or witnessing domestic violence.

Parents' issues with mental health, alcohol and drugs are among the risk factors that research by WAVE has shown to be root causes of child maltreatment.

By giving vulnerable parents and parents-to-be the support they need, this harm can be prevented before it happens.

Every year, more than 40 babies under the age of one in South Lakeland are living in households affected by domestic violence, while more than 160 babies live with a parent who has a mental health problem.

Tim said: "I truly believe if we commit to preventing harm to kids before it happens, we can do so much to reduce child abuse and neglect".

"That is why I'm delighted to pledge my support to the 70-30 campaign and I urge fellow MPs to do the same."