Children found working in freezing field prompt investigation

Children’s services in Sandwell have launched child protection investigations into the welfare of six Romanian children found working in a freezing field in Worcestershire, but have allowed the children to go back to their families.

The children, who are all aged between nine and 15, were taken into police protection last week after being found inadequately dressed for freezing temperatures in which they were picking spring onions, according to reports.

The children, who all live in Sandwell, were initially cared for by Worcestershire County Council foster carers but have been allowed to return to their parents while Sandwell social workers carry out assessments of their family situation.

Cllr Bob Badham, cabinet member for children & families at Sandwell Council, said: “We will be conducting a full investigation following last week’s events. At this stage what we can say is that the children’s best interests are our main concern and we believe they are best served by being with their families.

“We will now conduct a formal investigation and will be working with the families to safeguard the children’s health and wellbeing.”

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