Lobby all election candidates to reduce child cruelty

1:08pm Monday 21st May 2001

AS a campaigner for the NSPCC, I am writing to tell you about the Children's Manifesto.

Produced by the NSPCC, Barnado's and the Child Poverty Action Group, it sets out a blueprint for Government on children's issues. In the run up to the election, we read about "hot" issues like tax cuts and the question of Europe. But isn't the welfare of our children more important?

That's why these charities are asking all candidates to campaign for specific measures that will help children. These are:

Independent children's commissioners to be powerful champions for all UK children.

Systematic review of all child deaths to prevent children from dying from abuse and neglect.

Minimum income necessary for all families to ensure the health and well-being of their children.

Independent counselling schemes in schools to provide emotional support and the right to an advocate to uphold interests of children in care.

When candidates knock on the door please ask them if they support these measures. Then find out whether they would be prepared to lobby Government to turn them into policy. Children cannot vote, but this election is crucial for them, so please use your vote on their behalf. After all, MPs represent everyone that means children too. Cruelty to children must stop. Full Stop.

Jill Picken,

Elora Road,

High Wycombe