Nursery World - Accused teachers seek safeguards

Teachers' unions have called for teachers accused of assault by pupils to be given anonymity until they are charged and to be awarded compensation if they are cleared of abuse. The unions broadly welcomed education secretary David Blunkett's announcement of plans to ensure that allegations of assault were dealt with promptly, within three months in all but the most complicated cases. Mr Blunkett also said last week that 1.4m would be available this year to fund a network of regionally-based co-ordinators to help governing bodies deal with cases.

The unions broadly welcomed education secretary David Blunkett's announcement of plans to ensure that allegations of assault were dealt with promptly, within three months in all but the most complicated cases. Mr Blunkett also said last week that 1.4m would be available this year to fund a network of regionally-based co-ordinators to help governing bodies deal with cases.

However, Professional Association of Teachers acting general secretary Jean Gemmell said these measures did not go far enough. 'Being falsely accused and suspended can cause severe personal distress and long-term damage to the accused's career. These victims must be compensated financially or by a period of paid leave. It is also unreasonable for an acquitted teacher to have to work with the child who made the false accusation.

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