Scope reaction to death of Peter Clarke, Children’s Commissioner for Wales.

Jon Sparkes, Acting CEO of Scope, comments:

"It is with great sadness that we have learnt of the death of Peter Clarke, Children’s Commissioner for Wales.

"Peter worked for Scope when it was the Spastics Society and, although moving on to other employment, always remained firmly committed to the charity.

"Subsequently, in his capacity as Children’s Commissioner for Wales, Peter attended the Scope Cymru Showcase in October last year. Although initially replying to the invitation to say he was too ill to attend and would be sending a representative, Peter demonstrated his loyalty and commitment by making a special effort to attend the event in person.

"Peter was very keen to work on the Scope’s Children’s charter, taking it forward in Wales and discussing the creation of a children's forum around the charter.

"Peter was also an advocate for Scope Cymru’s plans for a co-located college for young disabled people within Wales, with a view to enabling disabled students to continue their education and personal development on the same site as non-disabled students. He was extremely passionate that this should happen and offered to meet with staff from Scope Cymru on his return to work. Sadly this did not take place, but Peter’s unwavering commitment to the rights of all children and young people will be remembered at Scope, where we hope to continue and build upon his work."