I WOULD like to take this opportunity to publicly thank our local MP, Dr Julian Lewis, for recently meeting with me and discussing the WAVE Trust 70/30 campaign to reduce child maltreatment by at least 70% by 2030. 

In a time when it seems the fashion is to accuse all politicians of being career-driven opportunists who only take an interest in the people they represent during election time, it was remarkably refreshing to speak to a man for whom nothing could be further from the truth.

Although my request for an appointment was made at short notice, Dr Lewis was very prompt with his reply. 

I was also impressed to find that he had gone to the trouble of researching the campaign beforehand and came into our meeting with thoughtful questions to ask.

Our argument is this: that one in five children in the UK suffer significant abuse or neglect; that prevention is often better than cure; and that, by supporting parents with issues like mental health, substance abuse or domestic problems, we can improve outcomes for thousands of children. 

This would actually save public funds – later interventions are often far costlier – and strengthen families – both by supporting parents and removing the need for later interventions.

I am pleased that Julian was extremely receptive to 70/30 and recognised how fundamentally important it is to improve the life chances of our young people. 

He confirmed that he would be happy to work with the campaign on an ongoing basis and look carefully at the developing evidence base in this area.

If readers have experience of children’s services or would like to get involved with the campaign details can be had from slawes@wavetrust.org.

Alex Williamson, 70/30 Ambassador and Area Coordinator for Hampshire.