AN MP has condemned as “deplorable and unacceptable” the abuse suffered by dozens of men who attended a former approved school and children’s home in her constituency.

North-West Durham MP Pat Glass said it was tragic that some victims had been too afraid or traumatised to complain about their treatment at Stanhope Castle School at a time when the perpetrators could have been held to account.

Despite a number of allegations of both physical and sexual abuse, including beatings and rapes, Durham Police recently said it was to take no criminal action since the individuals named as being responsible were either dead or could not be traced.

Mrs Glass said: “I am very sorry to learn of the reports of historical violent and sexual abuse suffered by former pupils of Stanhope Castle School. This type of abuse is deplorable, unacceptable and has a long term negative impact on lives.

“We must find better ways of encouraging victims to come forward quickly so investigations can take place and the perpetrators punished. Our ultimate aim must always be to keep children safe and never be complacent about their security and safeguarding.”

Stanhope Castle was opened as an approved school for boys shortly after the Second World War and was run by the Home Office. Many were sent there for relatively minor indiscretions such as attempting to steal a packet of biscuits or running away from home.

After the abolition of approved schools it was operated from 1974 until 1981 as a controlled children’s home by the former Cleveland County Council.

Its liabilities have been inherited by Middlesbrough Council, which is now facing a compensation bill from lawyers.

Earlier this month the council confirmed it was dealing with a number of claims, but said it was inappropriate to make any further comment.

National charity the National Association for People Abused in Childhood (NAPAC) said the council should now “do the right thing”.

Its chief executive officer Gabrielle Shaw said: “The experience of abuse victims from Stanhope Castle School tallies with what we hear from the many survivors who call our telephone support line.

“Being failed by authorities who were supposed to protect them. Having to endure sadistic and brutal treatment.

“Then having to wait years for belief, acknowledgement and reparation. We understand very well the need these people have for a public apology and acknowledgement of what they suffered and would urge Middlesbrough Council to do the right thing to meet this need.”