Music teachers advised not to touch children to avoid abuse claims

Music teachers are being told to have no physical contact with children during lessons to protect themselves from allegations of abuse. The guidelines from the Musicians' Union have prompted an angry response from teachers who claim that some contact is essential, when showing a child how to hold an instrument or use a keyboard. The union says its "no touching" advice was prompted by members' concerns at a growing number of "misunderstandings" that led to false allegations of child abuse and automatic suspension while the claims were investigated. The Sunday Telegraph has learnt of one case where a cello teacher was told by a school's child protection officer to stop touching pupils when showing them how to hold the bow. A source close to the teacher, who does not wish to be identified, said: "She was shocked and very upset.... [read full story]