Child Protection
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Child Protection
Child Protection means protecting a child from child abuse or neglect. Abuse and neglect are forms of maltreatment of a child. All children and young people have the right to be cared for and protected from harm and abuse, and to grow up in a safe environment in which their rights are respected and their needs are met.
Child protection is the responsibility of all who work with children and families, and all services are expected to identify and consider the child's needs, share information with other agencies and work collaboratively with each other to keep children safe.
In child protection cases, the role of the Lead Professional will typically be taken by the local authority social worker. They will then act as the main point of contact with the child and family, and with the child's Named Person within school, to monitor and review outcomes for that child and their family.
Staff Training
All members of staff receive annual Child Protection training, in order to ensure that they are all fully confident about their role in meeting children's needs and to be alert to concerns about a child's welfare. It is also vital that all staff know who to speak to if they have a concern, in order that timely and effective action can be taken to protect children.
The Depute Head Teacher with responsibility for Child Protection will always consider any concerns raised within the context of Getting it right for every child (GIRFEC) and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. Early intervention and support can prevent a problem from escalating into a crisis and ultimately, ensure positive outcomes for children.