Lagan College accused of not doing enough to prevent abuse

Victims of a former school welfare officer who was convicted of sexual assault and grooming have told ‘The State of Us’ they believe their school didn’t do enough to prevent the abuse. Neil Beckett groomed the schoolgirls and used his position as a welfare officer at Lagan College in Belfast to access vulnerable young women. He was found guilty on 17 counts last December. Lagan College have told the BBC “We pay tribute to the bravery of those pupils who came forward and we assure you that the school acted properly and promptly and in accordance with Lagan College’s Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy, which adheres to Department of Education guidance, at all times”. Two young women, who've spoken to us anonymously, believe the school wasted crucial opportunities to safeguard pupils from harm.

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