1.0 Introduction
1.1 As an agency working with children and young people, Priority is required to follow Child Protection Procedures.
1.2 Although you are our primary client, the welfare of children and young people is paramount, and takes precedence if there are any child protection issues.
2.0 What is child abuse?
2.1 Abuse of young children or young people could be
Physical Abuse
Sexual Abuse
Emotional Abuse
3.0 What is Priority’s legal responsibility?
3.1 Our duty to protect children applies to all children and young people. The child at risk could be you if you are under 18, your children, your siblings, children in your care, other young people or friends under 18 or any child Priority has contact with or receives information about.
3.2 The guidelines that apply to under 16 year olds also apply to 17 & 18 year olds.
4.0 What will happen if Priority has suspicions or evidence of child abuse?
4.1 If Priority workers believe that there is possible evidence of child abuse, or a young person is at risk they have a duty to inform the local authority social services department and possibly the police or NSPCC.
4.2 Confidentiality is not absolute secrecy. If a worker receives information about child abuse, it will be handled sensitively. It will be explained that it is necessary to involve other agencies in order to protect the child or young person.
4.3 It is not our role to investigate child abuse, any concerns raised will be recorded and passed onto social services, the police or the NSPCC.
4.4 As our primary client, residents or other service users, will continue to be supported by their housing support worker, or other worker, in all situations regarding abuse of children and young people.
In all our work, Priority will take into consideration the sensitive issues that may arise when working with people of different race, religion, language, culture, gender, physical and mental abilities.
If you would like a full copy of Priority’s Child Protection Policy, please ask your housing officer or other support worker.