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CHILD PROTECTION


As an agency working with children and young people, Priority is required to follow Child Protection Procedures. If a worker receives information about child abuse, Priority will deal with the situation sensitively. 

Confidentiality is not absolute secrecy, and we will need to inform Social Services where there are concerns that a child is being abused or is at risk of abuse. We will discuss with you any action we need to take.


WHAT IS CHILD ABUSE?

Abuse of young children or young people could be:

Neglect Physical Abuse Sexual Abuse Emotional Abuse


Abuse can also include financial exploitation of a young person.

PRIORITY'S RESPONSIBILITY LEGAL

CHILDREN: Priority's duty to protect children applies to all children and young people under the age of 18. 

VULNERABLE ADULTS: Priority also has responsibilities to inform Social Services if a "vulnerable adult" over the age of 18 is at risk of abuse. A vulnerable adult is someone who is unable to protect themselves against harm or exploitation, for example because of mental health issues, disability, age or illness.   


WHAT CAN I DO IF I AM AT RISK AT OF ABUSE, OR IF I KNOW SOMEONE WHO IS AT RISK OF ABUSE?

· Speak to your Support Worker at Priority, or another worker that you can trust, for example a Social Worker, Youth Offending Team Worker or Connexions Personal Adviser if you have one.
· Contact Social Services directly on 01454 868501
· Contact Childline on 0800 1111.

If you feel unable to talk to your Support Worker directly you can contact:
· Priority's South Gloucestershire Area Manager on 01454 865732 
· The Director of Priority Youth Housing on 0117 9530404
. The Bristol Housing Support Services Manager on 0117 9530404

If you would like a full copy of Priority's Child Protection Policy, please ask your Support Worker.
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Young People's Handbook