Health and Social Care Unit 10 Assignment 3 Caring for Children and Young People

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There are many physical and behavioural signs which would lead to the suspicion of maltreatment or abuse. In this assignment I will be explaining factors that would lead to the suspicion of maltreatment or abuse, appropriate responses that should be taken if maltreatment or abuse is suspected and the strategies and methods that can be used to support children, young people and their families where abuse is confirmed or suspected. Abuse is to treat an individual unfairly and harmfully. It comes in many forms; these include physical, intellectual, emotional and sexual abuse. Maltreatment is the wrongful treatment of an individual who is being cared for. In health and social care settings, abuse and maltreatment is not uncommon so it is also important that staff report any suspicious activity which may lead to the abuse and maltreatment of any individual. Infants and young children can be most vulnerable to certain forms of maltreatment, such as abusive head trauma, physical or medical neglect. The demands of caring for these children may overwhelm their parents. Due to their small physical size, early developmental status, and need for constant care it is important for all health and social care agencies involved in that child's life to make sure that they always look for the signs of maltreatment or abuse. In 2012 Daniel Pelka died from starvation weighing under 2 stone in body weight at 4 years old. Daniel Pelka weighed 10kg and was described as a 'concentration camp victim.' by his doctor. He started eating out of bins and stealing other student's food at school. Daniel was eating constantly at his school; this is a sign of neglect because it meant that he was desperate and starving all of the time. 24 bruises were located on all over Daniel's body; further examination showed that he suffered brain injuries. This would have been suspicious because a child

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