Victims of a former school welfare officer who was convicted of sexual assault and grooming have told ‘The State of Us’ they believe their school didn’t do enough to prevent the abuse. Neil Beckett groomed the schoolgirls and used his position as a welfare officer at Lagan College in Belfast to access vulnerable young women. He was found guilty on 17 counts last December. Lagan College have told the BBC “We pay tribute to the bravery of those pupils who came forward and we assure you that the school acted properly and promptly and in accordance with Lagan College’s Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy, which adheres to Department of Education guidance, at all times”. Two young women, who've spoken to us anonymously, believe the school wasted crucial opportunities to safeguard pupils from harm.

Tara Mills and Declan Harvey take on the tricky trans rights debate in today’s episode of The State of Us. Two local councils have become embroiled in the discussion. Where does the law stand in Northern Ireland, and what might be coming next?

They also chat about how the media reports on trans issues, and when the BBC has had to grapple with editorial decisions in this area.

Also on this episode: Declan’s dodgy ties and Tara’s TV trolling.

Get in touch: [email protected]

This is an edited (mid-June 2025) version of our original recording. It includes some additional information about the statement that had been issued by the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland and reflects listener feedback about our discussion.

The west Belfast rap band Kneecap have dominated recent headlines. Tara Mills and Declan Harvey chat about why there is a such a tie between Northern Ireland and Israel/Gaza. Dr Julie Norman from University College London gives us the very latest from the Middle East.

Also on today’s episode:

Our BBC complaint of the week – should a BBC TV news presenter be allowed to wear trainers?

Contact us: [email protected]

Tara Mills and Declan Harvey take on the tricky trans rights debate in today’s episode of The State of Us. Two local councils have become embroiled in the discussion. Where does the law stand in Northern Ireland, and what might be coming next?

They also chat about how the media reports on trans issues, and when the BBC has had to grapple with editorial decisions in this area.

Also on this episode: Declan’s dodgy ties and Tara’s TV trolling.

Get in touch: [email protected]

The west Belfast rap band Kneecap have dominated recent headlines. Tara Mills and Declan Harvey chat about why there is a such a tie between Northern Ireland and Israel/Gaza. Dr Julie Norman from University College London gives us the very latest from the Middle East.

Also on today’s episode

- Our BBC complaint of the week – should a BBC TV news presenter be allowed to wear trainers?

Contact us: [email protected]

A new way of talking and learning about the news in Northern Ireland.

Tara Mills and Declan Harvey react and reflect on the stories that impact all our lives and speak to those who can help us understand why we’re in the state we’re in.

There’ll be lots of candid conversations, special guests, with wisdom, informality and some fun along the way.

Nothing will be off the table on “The State of Us”. New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.