Safeguarding children & young people

Working as children's practitioner means having a very keen understanding of the arrangements to make sure that children and young people are safe from harm. 

Safeguarding and Promoting the Welfare of Children has been defined by the Government as:

"The process of protecting children from abuse or neglect, preventing impairment of their health and development, and ensuring they are growing up in circumstances consistent with the provision of safe and effective care that enables children to have optimum life chances and enter adulthood successfully."

Working Together to Safeguard Children, 2006

In child protection legislation the term ‘child' refers to anyone up to 18 years old.

The Safe Network is a DCSF funded partnership between NSPCC and Children England, and was created as a result of the Government's Staying Safe action plan.  Safe Network provides information, advice, and support to Third Sector organisations working with children and young people.

Safer Recruitment and Safer Practice

It is important that organisations adopt safer practice in recruiting and managing people that work with children, young people, and families/carers. This means carrying out a thorough interview and selection process and responding to concerns about the conduct of practitioners. It is also about creating an open culture within organisations.

For Guidance for Safer Working Practice for Adults who Work with Children and Young People click here.

Vetting and Barring

The Vetting and Barring Scheme (which was due to start on 26 July 2010) has been halted to allow the government to carry out a review. However, the regulations introduced in October 2009 will still apply. An update will be provided on completion of this review.