If a child reveals abuse what should I do?
A child who is being abused might not realise what’s happening is wrong and they might even blame themselves.
If a child talks to you about physical abuse it’s important to:
• listen carefully to what they're saying
• let them know they've done the right thing by telling you
• tell them it's not their fault
• say you'll take them seriously
• don't confront the alleged abuser
• explain what you'll do next
• report what the child has told you as soon as possible
• consider whether they need medical attention
How to report child abuse
To report child abuse:
• contact the children's social care team in the area where they live
• call 999 if the child is at immediate risk or call 101 if you think a crime has been committed
• contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online
• call the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000 or contact them online
Am I under a duty to report child abuse?
The answer to this may depend on your job. There is no legal duty on an individual to report abuse. However, a person may be under a duty to report an abuse by virtue of their employment.
Some employers are under a duty to have a Child Protection Policy within their workplace which places a duty upon their employees to safeguard and promote the welfare of children; this includes reporting abuse to the relevant authorities. Bodies that are generally under this duty include schools, colleges, health authorities and health trusts.
Will the parents know I made a referral and will I be kept informed?
The name of the person reporting the abuse will not be released to the parents or to anyone else, apart from those responsible for investigating the allegation. When informing Children’s Services about any possible abuse, it is usually a good idea to provide your name and address, but you can remain anonymous if you wish.
The NSPCC can make referrals to Children’s Services if there are concerns for a child. Concerns can also be raised with the police who can make a referral to Children’s Services.
It is very unlikely that Children’s Services will provide further information to the person who disclosed the alleged abuse to them unless they have parental responsibility. If Children’s Services do provide further information, it could amount to a breach of confidentiality.
What should I do if I know a child is at harm but Children’s Services haven’t done anything?
If you believe that a child is at risk but Children’s Services will not act further, then you can:
• Remind Children’s Services of their duty to act in such situations
• Contact the NSPCC or the police and ask them to make a referral
• Report the family again to Children’s Services.
If Children’s Services suspect my child has been abused and come to see me do I have to speak to them?
A parent does not have to speak to Children’s Services, but it is important to be co-operative. If you refuse to cooperate with Children’s Services, they are likely to take further action. If a referral about suspected abuse has been made, Children’s Services cannot ignore the allegations. They must ensure that the child is safe and is not suffering significant harm.
If the Social Worker wants my child to have a medical examination, should I agree?
Children’s Services cannot insist that a child has a medical examination without a Court Order or parental consent. If a parent is not happy about Children’s Services taking their child to a doctor, it is possible to arrange for their own GP to conduct a medical examination. I recommend that you cooperate with a medical examination as refusal could lead to Court proceedings.
How Can Timms Help?
If you require any further information with regards child abuse, please contact me on freephone 0800 011 666 or via email legal@timms-law.com
