Themes and perspectives in safeguarding theory Understand safeguarding of children and young people (for those working in the adult sector) Themes and perspectives in safeguarding theory Unit 516 (P5) (Level 3): Understand safeguarding of children and young people (for those working in the adult sector). 3978 Level 5 PowerPoint presentation 1

Themes and perspectives in safeguarding theory Autonomy and voice of the child Children used to be seen as possessions of the family and reliant on adults to care for them. Children are now seen as participants with the ability to have and express views and to make decisions. Children are increasingly seen as citizens with rights and responsibilities and the ability to act autonomously in some circumstances. The expectation is that we now listen to children and respect their viewpoints.

Themes and perspectives in safeguarding theory Working with parents as partners or as suspects Family structures and parenting practices now vary considerably in UK society. Safeguarding practitioners are sensitive to charges of being judgemental and opinionated about ‘normal’ family and ‘appropriate parenting’. It is necessary to deal with the tension between acknowledging difference and diversity, respecting parents’ rights, and safeguarding children and young people at risk. The key is building trusting partnerships with parents to support them, and avoiding a confrontational approach wherever possible.

Themes and perspectives in safeguarding theory Multi-agency working Professionals from health, education and social services are encouraged to work together to support children and their families. Multi-agency working is now a requirement by law (for example, Children Act 1989 and 2004). Safeguarding practitioners typically work within multi-agency teams. Inter-professional collaboration and information sharing is not always easy, and its breakdown is often cited as the cause of child protection failures.

Themes and perspectives in safeguarding theory Balancing rights and responsibilities There is a tension between: promoting and respecting the autonomy of the child and family the responsibility to safeguard and protect children from harm. National and local agency systems, policies and procedures are designed to assist practitioners in deciding whether and when to intervene.

Themes and perspectives in safeguarding theory Anti-discriminatory practice to ensure all persons get fair treatment All children and young people have the right to protection from abuse and neglect, regardless of their social or cultural background or type of family. Practitioners must avoid making assumptions about parenting or being unfairly prejudiced because of stereotyping about, for example: − economic situation − religion − ethnicity − abilities − gender − sexual orientation.

Themes and perspectives in safeguarding theory Acknowledging the emotional impact of work in this area Everyone involved in safeguarding work needs to acknowledge the emotional impact it has on children, families and practitioners. Professionals need to deal with emotions sensitively to protect everyone’s dignity. Supervision and support from/for colleagues are important in protecting practitioners from the potentially damaging emotional impact of safeguarding work.