Child Protection Policy

HABITER

Property Solutions

Child Protection Policy

Any member of staff who has knowledge of or a suspicion that a child is suffering significant harm, neglect or is at risk of significant harm has a duty to refer their concern to one of the company directors,

who in turn will refer the matter to the Senior Temporary Accommodation Officer at the specific housing authority.

Strategy

·        Any concerns are logged in a 'Confidential Incident Book' on the day it is first observed and as soon as possible on that day.

·        In cases where a member of staff suspects a child is being abused or neglected they should inform a abiter Property Solutions Company Director immediately.

·        Confidentiality is of the utmost importance, the matter should not be discussed elsewhere.

·        To comply with local Area Child Protection Committee (ACPC) procedures.

·         

One of the main philosophies of the Children Act 1989 is that local authorities should work in 'partnership' with parents wherever possible. Social Services guidelines stress:

·        All referrals are taken seriously and are considered with an open mind.

·        Once the local authority has been informed it has a duty to investigate.

·        Any enquiry should be conducted in such a way that the parents are not unnecessarily antagonised.

·        Parents are entitled to know what is going on and to be helped to understand the steps that are being taken.

Extracts are taken from the Social Services "Child Protection Awareness".