RoSPA Press Office : Press Release
June 20, 2003
FOCUS ON “ACCIDENTAL DAMAGE” TO SCOTTISH CHILDREN
The major impact of children’s accidents on Scottish families, society and agencies will be highlighted at a seminar in Glasgow on Tuesday (June 24) as part of Child Safety Week.
The effects of an accident can last a lifetime, and more than 160 professionals working with children and their families will meet at the Quality Hotel Central to raise awareness of the seriousness of the problem.
As well as examining the personal, operational and financial costs of an accident involving a child, the delegates will look at the best ways to support victims and their relatives.
The event – Accidental Damage: The Real Cost of Injuries - is being organised by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents, Greater Glasgow NHS Board, NHS Health Scotland (formerly HEBS) and the Glasgow Healthy City Partnership.
Around 11,500 Scottish children are admitted to hospital following accidents each year, mainly after incidents at home, although many of the more serious cases are likely to result from road accidents. Accidents are the main cause of death and injury to children in Scotland.
Elizabeth Lumsden, RoSPA Home Safety Manager for Scotland, said: “Far too many people still do not realise how common accidents involving children are. They can place a severe strain on service providers. There is no single body dealing with the problem and often a lack of information about what is required.
“The seminar will look at the roles and responsibilities of the various agencies which support injured youngsters and their families.
“They need to work in partnerships to ensure children can be included in mainstream educational and social activities and to develop effective accident prevention campaigns.”
The major subjects covered will be: the impact on the health service – both immediate and for after-care; the impact for education and related social services; and the impact on mental health service providers.
The seminar will be opened by journalist and television presenter Kaye Adams.
