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What to do if you are worried about a child?

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Allegations against Professionals

Background
Guidance relating to the management of allegations against professionals and volunteers was first introduced following the Bichard Inquiry into the murders of Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman in Soham (2002).  A range of recommendations were made that were designed to make it harder for unsuitable people to have access to children and young people through their employment or volunteering activities, and to deal efficiently and effectively with any allegations made against them.
 
Definition of an allegation
For the purpose of this process an allegation is where an adult working with or on behalf of children has:
  • Behaved in a way that has harmed, or may have harmed a child, or
  • Possibly committed a criminal offence against or related to a child, or
  • Behaved towards a child or children in a way that indicates unsuitability to work with children.
 
If you have a concern that a person may have behaved inappropriately or you have received information that may constitute an allegation you should:
  • report it to the Designated Senior Manager within your organisation as soon as possible, however trivial it may seem;
  • make a signed and dated written record of your concerns, observations or the information you have received to pass on to the Designated Senior Manager;
  • maintain confidentiality and guard against publicity while an allegation is being considered or investigated and follow local information sharing protocols
 
You should not:
  • attempt to deal with the situation yourself;
  • make assumptions, offer alternative explanations or diminish the seriousness of the behaviour or alleged incidents;
  • keep the information to yourself or promise confidentiality;
  • take any action that might undermine any future investigation or disciplinary procedure, such as interviewing the alleged victim or potential witnesses, or informing the alleged perpetrator or parents or carers.
 
Further guidance can be found in Working Together to Safeguard Children 2010 Appendix 5 and in the London Child Protection Procedures Section 15 at www.londonscb.gov.uk.  Guidance specific to schools and FE settings is available to download from here.
 
Hackney's local process management guidelines can be downloaded here.
 
If you want to report an allegation against a professional or would like a consultation, please ring the Safeguarding Duty Service (020 8356 8082) or the Hackney LADO (020 8356 4569).

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