Special report: Child abuse scandal

An inquiry into the sexual abuse of children at care homes in north Wales has revealed the "appalling mistreatment" the victims suffered over 20 years. The UK Government is now actively searching for 28 former care workers named in the inquiry's report.

Officials chase child abuse suspects

Children in care: Now and then

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The victims

Victims tell of abuse ordeal
Steven Messham was 13 when he was sent to the Bryn Estyn children's home in Wrexham. "Within a matter of days I was physically abused and sexually abused," he says.

Victims welcome abuse revelations

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The inquiry

Decades of silent suffering
The Waterhouse tribunal - the largest child abuse inquiry ever set up in the UK - heard evidence from hundreds of victims. It was established following decades of disquiet over the children's home care system in north Wales.

Government acts on abuse report

Childline seeks new abuse check

Archive coverage

Abuse victims' evidence was 'harrowing'
(9 February 2000)

Pressure mounts for children's commissioner
(26 December 1999)

Child abuse report reaches Welsh Secretary
(12 October 1999)

Child abuse inquiry report completed
(6 October 1999)

Child abuse report delayed
(1 July 1999)