This petition stems from a heartbreaking incident involving a vulnerable young person with neurodivergent diagnosis and learning disability. This individual was catastrophically failed by those who were supposed to protect them - groomed and raped by a carer, physically abused by a fellow resident, and subsequently missing for many hours. This person potentially experienced another horrific series of abuses in the community, including being drugged, kidnapped, and raped. The grotesque truth is that the care provider didn't report this vulnerable individual missing nor did they inform the family about their plight. They carried on as usual, a stark depiction of the neglectful and careless attitude prevailing in our 'Places of Safety.'

This is not a lone incident; such neglect and nonchalance are pervasive in the care sector. According to a study published by the National Autistic Society, one in four young people with a learning disability are at risk of avoidable harm, and 40% do not feel safe in their care setting. Meanwhile, reports of abuse are almost thrice as likely among care recipients than their peers (Reference: 'National Autistic Society, Ignored Abuse Study, 2019).

We cannot continue to accept half-hearted apologies and empty promises of "lessons learnt." Such systemic failures point to a need for a complete overhaul of accountability measures in these settings. We are demanding stricter enforcement of safety protocols, stringent penalties for non-compliance, and a transparent system to track and monitor quality of care. We deserve nothing less than absolute assurance of safety for our most vulnerable citizens, the ones who rely most heavily on the very services that thus far failed them so unforgivably.

With your help, we can ensure justice is served for the victim referenced in this petition, and more importantly, prevent similar atrocities from happening in the future. Please sign the petition and promote it among your circles!