Child Protection Policy
Dealing with disclosures and concerns about a child or young person
Keeping children safe is everyone’s responsibility, therefore it is vital that all staff, the board of trustee, volunteers and any other person who have contact with children in our setting know what to do and who to contact if they have a concern about a child or if a child makes a disclose. It can be very hard for children and young people to speak out about abuse. Often, they fear there may be negative consequences if they tell anyone what's happening to them. Therefore, it is important that adults know how to respond, what to do and who to inform. Abuse can happen to anyone and present in different ways. Being aware and alert to the signs and indicators of abuse is paramount to identifying when a referral is necessary to prevent further harm. The different types of abuse are neglect, physical abuse, sexual abuse and emotional abuse. Being alert to signs of radicalisation and extremism is part of safeguarding children. Concerns of this nature are treated as seriously as any other concern about a child.
What to do if you have a concern:
If child makes a disclosure, listen to the child, Do not ask probing questions. You may say ‘can you tell me more’.
Record you concern factually in writing without delay (ask a staff member to cover you if you need time), write down what the child has said word for word or record what has caused concern of child protection. Sign and date the paperwork.
Tell the safeguarding lead (or if not available the deputy safeguarding lead) – verbally explain your concern and give the DSL the written record.
The Designated Safeguarding lead will:
ensure that the concern is treated seriously and recorded appropriately.
record and Reflect upon concern, then implement appropriate action.
inform parent unless doing so would put child at risk of harm.
pass concern on to the relevant agency such as BANES social services triage team, Early Help agencies, police or Prevent .
Policy Reviewed January 2025