Barnsley Central MP, Dan Jarvis began his ‘Care at Christmas’ programme this morning, with a visit to Barnardos in Monk Bretton.

Jarvis explained, “Caring for a child that has been the victim of domestic abuse, sexual exploitation or a child that is severely disabled, can b a very difficult job, physically and emotionally.

In Barnsley, we are extremely fortunate to have some really dedicated individuals that are on call 24/7, and are helping vulnerable children from our community, change their lives for the better.

The staff at Banardos were truly inspiring people and they will be working flat-out over the Christmas period to help bring cheer to these children’s lives.

Violence against children is an appalling crime and as an MP I will always do everything I can to ensure that the laws are as strict as possible and also ensure that we have enough police on our streets to catch those committed crimes against children.

I worry that the government’s deep programme of cuts to our frontline police services, will effect their ability to catch parents that abuse their children, pedophiles and other offenders. This is a serious problem that needs serious government leadership.

I know that those children under the supervision of the Barnardos staff in Mon Bretton, are now in first-class care and I wish them all the very best for the New Year.