CCTV Reveals Abuse of Autistic Children at London School

Leaked footage shows children restrained, left in distress, and confined in padded rooms, prompting calls for urgent reforms in special education practices.

CCTV footage from Whitefield School in London shows autistic children being physically restrained, confined in padded 'calming rooms,' and left in distress between 2014 and 2017.
About 40 children with learning disabilities and severe mental disorders were subjected to prolonged isolation, often without food or drink, leading to self-harm and psychological trauma.
A police investigation reviewed 500 hours of footage but concluded without charges, while parents and experts criticized the lack of accountability and systemic failures.
The Flourish Trust, which now manages the school, claims significant reforms have been made since the incidents, including the discontinuation of calming rooms in 2017.
The Children’s Commissioner and safeguarding experts are urging a review of restraint and seclusion practices in schools, with the government considering updates to existing guidance.