HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade:

HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade:
Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Always Children First Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Non-HSE Agencies Information Session Cascade on
HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Non-HSE Agencies Information Session Cascade on Revised Children First 2011 Roles and Responsibilities Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook This is an Information session covering the topics outlined above. Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

It is the reference point for practice detail.
HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Children First 2011 This edition of Children First supersedes all others and should be the only one in use. It is the reference point for practice detail. Please note, all copies of previous versions should be discarded. Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Always Children First We must not pass the baton when we are concerned about a child, we must hold that concern together, collectively! This is the theme of the presentation……collective responsibility for child protection and welfare Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Context of Information Session
HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Context of Information Session Revision of Children First 1999 and publication of Children First 2011 National Guidance Standardised implementation of Children First Introduction and use of Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook Children First was originally published in September, The revised version was published by the Department of Children and Youth Affairs in July, As noted previously, this version should be the only one in circulation or operation. These information sessions are part of Phase 1 of an implementation plan for Children First 2011 that should see the Guidance consistently and fully implemented across all sectors and agencies. This session will also provide an introduction to the new HSE Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook; key aspects and usage will be outlined. Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Aims of the Information Session
HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Aims of the Information Session To give an overview of Children First Guidance 2011 To introduce the Child Protection & Welfare Handbook To promote the safety and well-being of children Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Objectives By the end of the session you will:
HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Objectives By the end of the session you will: Be briefed on Children First Guidance 2011 and the Child Protection & Welfare Practice Handbook Have a clear understanding of your Roles and Responsibilities in relation to Child Protection and Welfare This briefing is designed to help you bring this information back to your colleagues. It is also designed to provide information to all who attend any of the Information Sessions on roles, responsibilities and key aspects of the Children First National Guidance. Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Differences between CF 1999 and CF Guidance 2011
HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Differences between CF 1999 and CF Guidance 2011 Name has changed from Guidelines to Guidance Substance and principles of 1999 Guidelines unchanged Content has been updated to reflect the development of new agencies (HSE, HIQA, DCYA) and changes in policy and legislation since 1999 This is not an exhaustive list of differences between Children First Guidelines 1999 and Children First Guidance 2011, it highlights some of the significant differences and is not a substitute for participants reading and understanding Children First Guidance 2011 for themselves. It is important to note that the substance and principles of the Guidance is unchanged. The Guidance has been updated to bring greater clarity to individuals and organisations seeking assistance in identifying and responding appropriately to child abuse. Bullet 3: Our Duty to Care 2002 Trust in Care 2005 (for HSE funded services) Protected Disclosures of Information in the Workplace Procedure 2009 (for HSE funded services) Note: This is not a comprehensive or definitive list. With the exception of Our Duty to Care, the others are official HSE policies or procedures and more information can be accessed on Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Differences between CF 1999 and CF Guidance 2011 (2)
HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Differences between CF 1999 and CF Guidance 2011 (2) Reflects recommendations from recent reports Reflects the growing awareness of the impact of ongoing neglect on children Revises the definitions of Child Abuse. The term Designated Person is changed to Designated Liaison Person. Bullet 1: Includes, but is not limited to: Ferns Inquiry 2005 Monageer Inquiry 2008 Ryan Report 2009 Murphy Report 2009 Roscommon Child Care Case 2010 Cloyne Report 2011 Bullet 2: The provision of child welfare services including the requirement of Local Health Office areas to have a family support service plan is covered in Children First 2011 Section 5.6 Bullet 3: We will go through the revisions later in the session. The revised Guidance provides a new definition of Physical and Emotional abuse. There is a definition of a Welfare concern contained in the CPW Practice Handbook. Bullet 4: The role is unchanged. There is clear distinction between the different titles contained in Section 1 of the CPW Practice Handbook. This will be flagged again later. Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Differences between CF 1999 and CF Guidance 2011 (3)
HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Differences between CF 1999 and CF Guidance 2011 (3) Emphasises the role of Our Duty To Care in guiding Child Protection policies, practices and procedures within the community and voluntary sectors. Specific guidance for developing local child protection and welfare procedures (appendix 8 : 92). New Standard Report Form introduced. Bullet 2: The revised Children First Guidance is explicit that content of local policies must not deviate from Children First with specific regard to definitions of abuse, confidentiality and reporting procedures. The content of such local guidelines should not be at variance with the national guidance, but there may be particular specificity or elaboration appropriate to local circumstances (see Children First Appendix 8 for guidance on developing local child protection procedures). Bullet 3: Children First 2011 introduces a new Standard Report Form for reporting child protection and welfare concerns to the HSE. The form is to be used by all professionals, staff and volunteers in organisations working with or in contact with children, or providing services to children. The form is to be found as appendix 3 of Children First There are differences to the wording of the Standard Report Form from the form previously in use, which practitioners should acquaint themselves with. A copy of the revised Standard Report Form and accompanying Guidance Notes is also distributed with the Information Session materials provided by the HSE. Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Is the Implementation of Children First Guidance mandatory?
HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Is the Implementation of Children First Guidance mandatory? All statutory, voluntary and community organisations working with and in direct contact with children should have procedures and guidelines derived from and consistent with the current Children First: National Guidance for their staff and volunteers. C.F While Children First Guidance is at present not on a statutory footing, the implementation of Children First is mandatory for all HSE staff. Legislation is being prepared by the DCYA in line with the Government decision for all organisations working with children to comply with the guidance. This means co-operating and sharing information, including child protection concerns, with the two statutory agencies - the HSE and An Garda Síochána. The legislation, once enacted obliges organisations/professionals to work with the statutory bodies, by way of sharing information, co-operating and reporting, where they are involved with a child about whom there are concerns. Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Children First 2011 : Contents
HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Children First 2011 : Contents Part I : Key Messages Part II : Definitions and Recognition of Child Abuse; Basis for reporting concerns; Standard Reporting Procedures; Interagency Cooperation. Part III : Guidance for HSE Children and Family Services; Other Professionals; Protocol for An Garda Siochana-HSE Liaison. Part IV : Special Considerations References and Official Websites Appendices 1 – 10. Note: The content areas below do not refer to specific sections of the Guidance, but to the main areas of information covered throughout the guidance and appendices Context: Principles of Children First Aims of Children First Key messages Legislation, policies and procedures Child protection is everyone’s responsibility/ society’s duty of care Recognition of child abuse: 4 categories of abuse – Neglect; Emotional Abuse; Physical Abuse; Sexual Abuse Signs and symptoms of abuse Responding and reporting: Confidentiality Reasonable grounds for concern Talking to parents about making a report Reporting to the Social Work department Attending CPC’s, strategy meetings etc Working together: Co-ordinated response by all involved Inter-agency co-operation Roles of different professions and agencies outlined, eg schools, mental health services, voluntary and community services Protocol for the HSE and An Garda Síochána Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Part I: Aims of Children First Guidance
HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Part I: Aims of Children First Guidance Overarching aim: to promote the safety and well-being of children Children First 2011 Key Messages Identification and reporting of child abuse Framework for multidisciplinary/interagency co-operation Highlight roles and responsibilities of the HSE and Gardaí Guidance to agencies and community/voluntary organisations Needs of children and families at centre Welfare of the child of paramount importance C.F Overarching aim: to promote the safety and wellbeing of children Children First 2011 To assist people in the identification and reporting of child abuse and neglect and deal effectively with concerns To provide a framework to support the enhancement of inter-agency co-operation and the strengthening of multidisciplinary responses to child abuse and neglect To highlight the roles and responsibilities of the HSE and An Garda Síochána, which are the two agencies with statutory responsibility for child protection To offer guidance to agencies and community and voluntary organisations that have contact with or provide services to children To emphasise that the needs of children and families must be at the centre of child protection and welfare services To emphasise that the welfare of the child is of paramount importance Children First Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Key Principles of Best Practice in Child Protection and Welfare
HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Key Principles of Best Practice in Child Protection and Welfare The Welfare of children is of paramount importance. Family support should form the basis of early intervention. Children have the right to be heard, listened to and taken seriously. Parents/carers have a right to respect and to be consulted and involved in matters that concern their family. Balance between protecting children and respecting parents Separating children from parents as a last resort When working with adults, consider impact of adult’s behaviour on child and act in the child’s best interest C.F Please direct participants to Children First for the full text of the Key principles of best practice in child welfare and protection. This slide highlights seven of the key principles. Point 1: Early intervention and support should be available to promote the welfare of children and families particularly where they are vulnerable and at risk of not receiving adequate care and protection Point 2: Children have a right to be heard, listened to and taken seriously. Taking account of their age and understanding, they should be consulted and involved in all matters and decisions which may affect their lives. Where there are concerns about a child’s welfare, there should be opportunities provided for their views to be heard independently of their parents/carers Point 3: Parents/carers have a right to respect and should be consulted and involved in matters which concern their family Point 4: A proper balance must be struck between protecting children and respecting the rights and needs of parents. Where there is conflict, the child’s welfare must come first Point 5: Children should only be separated from parents when all alternative means are exhausted. Re-union should always be considered in the context of planning for the child’s future Point 6: Note: Emphasise this Principle as it is new and was not included in Children First Professionals/agencies working with adults who may have serious difficulties meeting their children’s basic needs for safety and security, should always consider the impact of their adult client/patient’s behaviour on a child and act in the child’s best interest Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 PART II: Definitions and Recognition of Child Abuse; Basis for reporting concerns and Standard Reporting Procedure; Interagency Cooperation Although this is content that may have been covered previously it is included as there are changes to the definitions and this information session provides an opportunity to revisit definitions, roles and responsibilities. Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Neglect An omission, where the child suffers significant harm or impairment of development by being deprived of food, clothing, warmth, hygiene, intellectual stimulation, supervision and safety, attachment to and affection from adults, medical care. C.F. 2011, 2.2 This definition is unchanged from CF1999. Whether [the harm] is significant is determined by the child’s health and development as compared to that which could reasonably be expected of a child of similar age. Children First Neglect generally becomes apparent in different ways over a period of time rather than at one specific point. For example, a child who suffers a series of minor injuries may not be having his or her needs met in terms of necessary supervision and safety. A child whose height or weight is significantly below average may be being deprived of adequate nutrition. A child who consistently misses school may be being deprived of intellectual stimulation. Children First Child neglect is the most common category of abuse. A distinction can be made between ‘wilful’ neglect and ‘circumstantial’ neglect. ‘Wilful’ neglect would generally incorporate a direct and deliberate deprivation by a parent/carer of a child’s most basic needs, e.g. withdrawal of food, shelter, warmth, clothing, contact with others. ‘Circumstantial’ neglect more often may be due to stress/inability to cope by parents or carers. Children First Appendix 1 Make the following points from the Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 1.5. Neglect – the most common type of abuse: Multiple factors contribute to child abuse and neglect. In addition to parents’ role consider also societal and environmental factors contributing to the parents’ inability to provide for the basic needs of the child such as social isolation, poor housing, low levels of employment and poverty Child Neglect often co-exists with other inter-related concerns e.g. Domestic Violence, Parental Mental Health Issues, Parental Substance Misuse, Parental Intellectual Disability etc. This points to the importance of good evidence-based assessments which take a holistic view of all the circumstances in the child’s life and the importance of referrals from those working with children. Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Emotional Abuse Emotional abuse is normally to be found in the relationship between a parent/carer and a child rather than in a specific event or pattern of events. It occurs when a child’s developmental need for affection, approval, consistency and security are not met. Unless other forms of abuse are present, it is rarely manifested in terms of physical signs or symptoms. C.F. 2011, 2.3 This is a new definition in CF 2011. Examples of emotional abuse: Persistent criticism, sarcasm, hostility or blaming Conditional parenting – level of care contingent on child’s behaviours or actions Emotional unavailability of parent or carer Parental unresponsiveness Premature imposition of responsibility on child Unrealistic or inappropriate expectations of the child Under- or over-protection of the child Failure to show interest in, or provide, age-appropriate opportunities for child’s development Use of unreasonable or over-harsh disciplinary measures Exposure to domestic violence Exposure to inappropriate or abusive material through new technology Children First Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Physical Abuse Is that which results in actual or potential physical harm from an interaction or lack of interaction, which is reasonably within the control of a parent or person in a position of responsibility, power or trust. C.F. 2011, 2.4.1 This definition is changed from the CF 1999. Physical abuse can involve: severe physical punishment beating, slapping, hitting or kicking pushing, shaking or throwing pinching, biting, choking or hair-pulling terrorising with threats observing violence deliberate poisoning suffocation fabricated/induced illness (see appendix 1 for details) allowing or creating substantial risk of significant harm to a child use of excessive force in handling Children First Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Sexual Abuse When a child is used by another person for his or her gratification or sexual arousal or for that of others. C.F This definition is unchanged. See Colburn Faller (in Children First 2011, Appendix 1) for a description of the wide spectrum of activities by adults which can constitute child sexual abuse. Some examples include: exposure of the sexual organs or any sexual act intentionally performed in the presence of the child intentional touching or molesting of the body of a child. masturbation in the presence of the child or the involvement of the child in an act of masturbation sexual intercourse with the child sexual exploitation of a child, which includes inciting, encouraging, propositioning, requiring or permitting a child to solicit for, or to engage in, prostitution or other sexual acts; involving a child in modelling or posing for the purpose of sexual arousal, including its recording (on film, video tape or other media) or the manipulation, for those purposes, of the image by computer or others means. It may also include showing sexually explicit material to children which is often a feature of the ‘grooming’ process by perpetrators of abuse. Consensual sexual activity involving an adult and an under-age person. In relation to child sexual abuse, it should be noted that, for the purpose of the criminal law, the age of consent to sexual intercourse is 17 years. Note: the definition of sexual abuse presented here is not a legal definition and is not intended to be a description of the criminal offence of sexual assault Children First Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Welfare A problem experienced directly by a child, or by the family of a child, that is seen to impact negatively on the child’s welfare or development, which warrants assessment and support CP&W Practice Handbook, p.6 Promoting childrens’ safety and welfare means early intervention and family support. Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Guidelines for Recognition
HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Guidelines for Recognition There are three stages in the identification of child neglect or abuse: Considering the possibility 2. Looking out for signs of neglect or abuse 3. Recording of information C.F Stage 1: Consider the possibility where there is: suspicious injury without a reasonable explanation child distressed without obvious reason child displays persistent or new behavioural problems child displays unusual or fearful responses to parents/carers/older children a pattern of ongoing neglect Children First Note the importance of keeping the focus on the child. Refer participants to the Child Protection & Welfare Practice Handbook “See life from the child’s point of view”. Stage 2: Looking out for signs of neglect or abuse: Note: general signs that are more indicative of abuse than others which include: disclosure of abuse by a child or young person age-inappropriate or abnormal sexual play or knowledge specific injuries or patterns of injuries absconding from home or a care situation attempted suicide underage pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections signs in one or more categories at the same time: e.g. signs of developmental delay, physical injury and behavioural signs may together indicate a pattern of abuse Children First Stage 3: Recording of information: establish grounds for concern by obtaining as much information as possible record observations accurately including dates, time, names, locations, contexts care should be taken in relation to storing information Children First Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Points to Remember The severity of a sign does not necessarily equate with the severity of the abuse. Neglect is as potentially fatal as physical abuse. Experiencing recurring low-level abuse may cause serious and long-term harm. Child abuse is not restricted to any socio-economic group, gender or culture. Challenging behaviour by a child or young person should not render them liable to abuse. These are points to remember when looking out for signs of neglect or abuse as in stage 2, preceding slide #21. Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Points to Remember Exposure to domestic violence is detrimental to children’s physical, emotional and psychological well-being. It is sometimes difficult to distinguish between indicators of child abuse and other adversities suffered by children and families Neglectful families may be difficult to engage. Families where neglect and abuse are prevalent may go to considerable lengths to deceive professionals. C.F These are points to remember when looking out for signs of neglect or abuse as in stage 2, preceding slide #21. Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Basis for Reporting Concerns & Standard Reporting Procedure
HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Basis for Reporting Concerns & Standard Reporting Procedure The HSE Children and Family Services should always be informed when a person has reasonable grounds for concern that a child may have been, is being or is at risk of being abused or neglected. Child protection concerns should be supported by evidence that indicates the possibility of abuse or neglect. A concern about a potential risk to children posed by a specific person, even if the children are unidentifiable, should also be communicated to the HSE Children and Family Services. Any reasonable concern or suspicion of abuse or neglect must elicit a response. The safety and well-being of the child must take priority and reports should be made without delay to the HSE Children and Families Service. Before deciding whether or not to make a formal report, you may wish to discuss your concerns with the HSE Children and Family Services informally. Bullet 1: Examples of Reasonable Grounds for Concern can be found in Our Duty to Care and the CPW Practice Handbook, which contains more information including reflective questions to ask when considering a welfare or child protection concern (see p. 22 and p. 30 – 31). Bullet 3: This is new content and could relate to concerns arising from retrospective disclosures or around specific individuals moving between organisations (see also CPW Practice Handbook p. 29 “Practice Note: Staff working in adult services”) Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Sharing Child Protection Concerns
HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Sharing Child Protection Concerns It is the responsibility of all agencies working with children and for the public to recognise child protection concerns and share these with the agencies responsible for assessing or investigating them, not to determine whether the child protection concerns are evidenced or not. C.F Working together is more than just passing on relevant information. It is much more concerned with robust relationships between disciplines and agencies. It is about the quality of the information and also the quality of the relationship. If relationships are not based on trust, relevant information will not be passed on to the detriment of protecting children. Robust collaborative work is about putting children first to promote their safety and well-being. Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

What Constitutes Reasonable Grounds for Concern?
HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 What Constitutes Reasonable Grounds for Concern? An injury or behaviour that is consistent both with abuse and an innocent explanation, but where there are corroborative indicators supporting the concern that it may be a case of abuse. Consistent indication over a period of time that a child is suffering from emotional or physical neglect. Admission or indication by someone of an alleged abuse. A specific indication from a child that he or she was abused. An account from a person who saw the child being abused. Evidence (e.g. injury or behaviour) that is consistent with abuse and unlikely to have been caused in any other way. CP&W Practice Handbook 2.3 One should examine the report you receive by looking at the information which has been reported to you and asking questions if necessary to give further clarity. The above examples constitute reasonable grounds for concern. A suspicion not supported by any objective signs does not constitute a reasonable suspicion or reasonable grounds for concern. ( pg 3 of the Policy on HSE Staff Responsibility for the Protection and Welfare of Children May 2010) see also CP&W Practice Handbook Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Retrospective Disclosures by Adults
HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Retrospective Disclosures by Adults Establish whether any current risk to any child who may be in contact with alleged abuser If any risk is deemed to exist to a child who may be in contact with an alleged abuser, the counselor /health professional should report the allegation to the HSE Children and Family Services without delay. C.F. 2011, 3.6 A concern about a potential risk to children posed by a specific person, even if the children are unidentifiable should be communicated to the HSE Children and Family Services C.F. 2011, 3.2.4 It is essential to establish whether there is any current risk to any child who may be in contact with the alleged abuser revealed in such disclosures even though we may not know the identity of the children and to report the allegation as above The HSE National Counselling Service is a place to listen, value and understand those who have been abused in childhood and can be accessed through referral, or self referral Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Confidentiality Information shared on need to know basis
HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Confidentiality Information shared on need to know basis No undertakings regarding secrecy The provision of information to the statutory agencies for the protection of a child is not a breach of confidentiality or data protection Organisations should have a written Policy C.F. 2011, 3.9 Point 1: The effective protection of a child often depends on the willingness of staff in statutory and voluntary organisations involved with children to share and exchange relevant information Point 2: Ethical and statutory codes concerned with confidentiality and data protection provide general guidance Point 3: They are not intended to limit or prevent the exchange of information between different professional staff with a responsibility for ensuring the protection and welfare of children Children First Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Reckless Endangerment of Children
HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Reckless Endangerment of Children Section 176 of the Criminal Justice Act 2006 introduced the criminal charge of reckless endangerment of children. It states: ‘A person, having authority or control over a child or abuser, who intentionally or recklessly endangers a child by – (a) causing or permitting any child to be placed or left in a situation which creates a substantial risk to the child of being a victim of serious harm or sexual abuse, or (b) failing to take reasonable steps to protect a child from such a risk while knowing that the child is in such a situation, is guilty of an offence.’ The penalty for a person found guilty of this offence is a fine (no upper limit) and/or imprisonment for a term not exceeding 10 years. C.F. 2011, 3.2.7 See Appendix 7 for a full list of legislation Section 176 of the Criminal Justice Act 2006 introduced the criminal charge of reckless endangerment of children. This was introduced on foot of a recommendation from the Ferns Enquiry and relates to all forms of child sexual abuse. The act defines “serious harm” as “injury which creates a substantial risk of death or which causes permanent disfigurement or loss or impairment of the mobility of the body as a whole or of the function of any particular member or organ”. Physical abuse, as defined earlier, does not always meet this threshold. The penalty for a person found guilty of this offence is a fine (no upper limit) and/or imprisonment for a term not exceeding 10 years. Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Interagency Cooperation
HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Interagency Cooperation No one profession has all the skills, knowledge or resources to meet all the requirements of an individual case Effective interagency cooperation has a number of benefits including: Ensuring provision of a comprehensive response to all concerns about children by the pooling of resources and skills, from initial enquiry to assessment and case management, including early identification and prevention. Avoiding gaps in the service response especially in cases where information would otherwise remain concealed or unknown Providing mutual support for professionals in complex cases It is essential therefore, that all professionals and organisations involved with a child and his or her parents/carers deliver a co-ordinated response Children First Interagency and interprofessional co-operation and co-ordination is as important at the later stages of child protection work as it is at the outset. All personnel involved in a case should consistently make efforts to remain in contact with the key worker (normally the HSE social worker) and to communicate any relevant information. The child’s safety and protection must take precedence at all times. Children First – 4.3.5 Working in the area of child abuse is complex and uncertain work. No one has all the knowledge about a family. Nor has any one professional all the skills needed in working with a family. Sharing information appropriately and respectfully gives a fuller picture and can lead to greater objectivity Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Roles and Responsibilities: Non-HSE Agencies (1)
HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Roles and Responsibilities: Non-HSE Agencies (1) Obligation to provide children with the highest possible standard of care and safeguard them from abuse; Develop procedures and guidelines derived from and consistent with Children First: National Guidance 2011 (see appendix 8); Take account of the guidance in Our Duty To Care (2002) in the development of child protection policies, procedures, and practices; Completed local guidelines should be forwarded to the HSE as a matter of good practice. It is important that child protection policy, procedures and guidelines are consistent with Children First. Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Roles and Responsibilities: Non-HSE Agencies (2) Agencies have a corporate duty and responsibility to safeguard children by : Promoting the general welfare, health, development and safety of children; Adopting a safe and clearly defined method of recruiting and selecting staff and volunteers; Developing guidance and procedures for staff who may have reasonable grounds for concern that should not deviate from Children First Guidance It is the responsibility of the Board of Directors or Management to ensure that such policies are in place and are operating effectively. It is important to note that all organisations in contact with or providing services to children have an overall corporate duty and responsibility to safeguard children through promoting the general welfare, health, development and safety of children and through adopting child protection procedures and guidelines consistent with Children First. Please see Children First and Appendix 8, and Our Duty to Care for specific guidance on developing local guidelines. The HSE employ Children First Information and Advice officers who will assist organisations with development of their child protection policies. Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Roles and Responsibilities: Non-HSE Agencies (3) Identifying a designated liaison person (DLP) to act as liaison with outside agencies and a resource for staff and volunteers who has child protection and welfare concerns; The appointed DLP is responsible for reporting allegations or concerns of child abuse to the HSE Children and Family service or An Garda Síochána; Ensuring clear written procedures on the action to be taken if allegations of abuse against employees/ volunteers are received (see appendix 9); Organisations should ensure that a designated liaison person is appointed and that there are clear written procedures within the child protection policy to deal with allegations of child abuse or child protection and welfare concerns and that there is also a procedure to deal with allegations of abuse against employees/volunteers. Please also see Our Duty to Care Factsheet 7 for more information on the DLP. Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Roles and Responsibilities: Non-HSE Agencies (4) Raising awareness about potential risks to children’s safety and welfare; Developing effective procedures for responding to accidents and complaints; Ensuring clear procedures in relation to record keeping of child protection and welfare concerns are in place, operating effectively and records securely stored; Organisations can promote the safety and welfare of children through fulfilling the above responsibilities. Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Roles and Responsibilities: Non-HSE Agencies (5) Organisations that administer services through a number of different units should standardise recording procedures throughout the organisation; All agencies dealing with children must have a written policy of cooperating with the HSE Children and Family Services on the sharing of their records where a child welfare or protection issue arises Training in child protection and welfare must be an integral part of the plans in all agencies. A percentage of the annual budget in each agency should be explicitly committed to child protection training. It is important for organisations to standardise recording procedures and to have a written policy of co-operation with the HSE C&F services on sharing of records where a child protection and welfare concern arises. All agencies should have training in child protection and welfare as part of their core plans. Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Response to persons reporting concerns
HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Response to persons reporting concerns Other professionals involved should be kept updated and informed about the outcomes of any enquiry or investigation into the reported concern, where this is appropriate to their professional care/treatment of the child or the performance of their own duties and within the normal limits of confidentiality. C.F The HSE Children and Family Services has a responsibility to provide feedback and to keep other professionals updated and informed in so far as this is necessary for the safeguarding of children and within the limits of confidentiality. Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Part III: Guidance for Other Professionals
HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Part III: Guidance for Other Professionals Non-HSE Agencies with which the child and/or parents/carers have contact may have relevant information to contribute to the assessment of a child protection and welfare case. (C.F. 2011, 5.2.6) Professionals in voluntary agencies…are in a good position to observe a child and his or her relationship with parents/carers. It may be appropriate for a professional from one of these organisations to pursue the enquiry jointly with, or on behalf of, the HSE Children and Family Services (C.F. 2011, ) Non-HSE organisations may be in a key position to share relevant information and observations regarding child protection and welfare with the HSE C&F services. A key message that runs throughout the document is the importance of and responsibility to share such information with the statutory services. Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Part IV: Special Considerations
HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Part IV: Special Considerations Especially Vulnerable Children Children in residential settings Children in Care Children who are Homeless Children with disabilities Separated children seeking asylum Children being trafficked Other identified risk factors include the age of the child CP&W Practice Handbook 3.2.1 All children are vulnerable but these categories of children are considered additionally vulnerable. Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 “..The Practice Handbook is designed to be a companion volume and to complement Children First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children (2011)”. Foreword, Gordon Jeyes, National Director, Children and Family Services, HSE, September 2011 Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Key Messages For Practice
HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Key Messages For Practice No single agency or professional can work in isolation to keep a child safe: It’s everyone's responsibility Share concerns and information with relevant professionals: you may hold key information Wherever you work: be aware of the possibility of child abuse Keep the focus on the child: don't get distracted by adult problems If in doubt, discuss concerns with line manager/ supervisor/designated person in your agency These are the key messages from Gordon Jeyes, National Director Children and Family Services HSE 2011 Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011
HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Aide to delivering accountable, consistent and transparent practice Complement Children First 2011 Companion to Children First, policies, procedures and legislation Deliver accountable practice Quick reference book for front-line practice Sets out key issues for different stages Evidence-based Foreword Gordon Jeyes, National Director CFS “The vital work of Social Workers and other professionals together with partner agencies in assessing risk and acting to protect vulnerable children is difficult and demanding. This Practice Handbook is designed as a quick reference book to help support front line practice. It sets out the key issues in the different stages of action from referral through assessment to intervention. It has taken account of the recommendations of inquiries and case reviews together with international research and best practice. The Handbook is designed to complement Children First 2011 which is the full reference text for practitioners. It is a companion to Children First 2011, current policies and procedures and Irish legislation. The Handbook is a guide to basic and consistent practice but cannot and does not cover everything. The Handbook will give clear guidance – but additional support and advice should be sought through your peers and your line manager…. The task for all of us is to use our professional skills, work together and offer an accountable, consistent and transparent child-centred service to protect children. The Handbook builds on the skill, resilience and determination of agencies working together to put children first. It is a professional guide to help us be reliable and dependable partners and to ask the same of others.” Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook Extract from Foreword by Gordon Jeyes, HSE National Director Children and Family Services Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Five Sections Section 1 Section 2 Section 3 Section 4 Section 5 Appendices Please see the slides which follow for the content of each section Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Section 1: For everybody whose work brings them into direct or indirect contact with children and their families. It provides a Glossary of Terms frequently used in child protection and welfare practice, as well as the definitions of the four types of child abuse. There is a more detailed chapter on child neglect since this is the most common type of child abuse and is also the most reported concern to the HSE Children and Family Services. Section 2 Section 3 Section 4 Section 5 Appendices This is a useful section for all sectors to read. Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Section 1 Section 2: For all allied professionals and volunteers whose work brings them into direct or indirect contact with children and their families. what to do if you are worried about a child, your roles and responsibilities, how to refer your concerns and your involvement after you have made a referral Section 3 Section 4 Section 5 Appendices Section 2 provides practice notes for non HSE staff in dealing with child protection and welfare concerns. Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Section 1 Section 2 Section 3: For key Social Work staff of the HSE Children and Family Services. This section aims to provide a practical resource in identifying, assessing and responding to risk. It gives an overview of the child protection process, highlights known risk factors in child protection work and outlines key triggers to consider when carrying out assessments. Section 4 Section 5 Appendices Section 3 provides practice notes and messages form inquiries and research for key Social Work staff in the HSE C&F services. It has information which maybe of interest to practitioners in other areas but is targeted at front line Children and Families Services staff. Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Section 1 Section 2 Section 3 Section 4: Provides more information around support and guidance for Social Work staff, including supervision, continuous professional development and training, managing allegations, complaints and how to make a protected disclosure. Section 5 Appendices Section 4 provides more information around support and guidance for Social Work Staff on the above topics. Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Section 1 Section 2 Section 3 Section 4 Section 5: Resources include national contacts for the HSE Children and Family Services and a list of References used to inform the Practice Handbook. Appendices Section 5 provides information on the References used to inform the Handbook and National Health Service Contact details. Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Section 1 Section 2 Section 3 Section 4 Section 5 Appendices Six appendices provide additional information and resources for practice. Appendices provides additional information and resources for practice on the following areas: summary of key legislation, checklist for multi agency contribution, Serious Case Inquiries Recommendations for practice, flowchart-response when an infant under 12 months presents with injuries, Child Development checklist 0-5, Parental issues that can impact on parenting capacity…etc. Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Next Steps Review and amend accordingly existing child protection policies, procedures and practices to ensure consistency with the Revised Children First Guidance Director/Management/DLP Cascade briefings to all staff and volunteers Embedding of Children First Guidance 2011 is a continuous process Successful implementation among teams requires an on-going process. Child protection is everyone’s business and should be kept live on team meeting agendas. It also needs to be considered when reviewing and/or developing internal reporting procedures. It is important to ensure that all staff are briefed on same. Allowing for continuous professional development and evidence-based practice to flourish will also help the embedding of child safeguarding practices. Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Where can I get more Information?
HSE Information Pack for External Services’ Cascade: Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Where can I get more Information? Children First Our Duty to Care Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook Standard Reporting form FAQ sheets and Information on Advice, Guidance and Support Are all available to access at Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 “Children grow to fill the space we create for them, and if it is big they grow tall” Jonathan Sacks We need to provide a safe space for the children of Ireland so that they can grow tall. Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

Children First 2011 & Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook 2011 Thank you Questions Developed and Distributed by HSE Children and Families Services, Office of the Assistant National Director, and HSE Children First Information and Advice Officers – December 2011

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