Identify and Respond to Child Abuse

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1711-Protecting Children Manual-10 18/8/06 8:07 AM Page 1 Identifying and responding to child abuse and neglect A Guide for Professionals 1711-Protecting Children Manual-10 18/8/06 8:07 AM Page 2 Contents Foreword 1 The facts about child abuse 2 Key Terms 3 Factors that contribute to abuse and neglect 4 The consequences of abuse and neglect 5 How do I recognise when a child or young person is at risk? Roles and responsibilities 6 11 Reporting child abuse and neglect 13 Information Sharing 15 Making a report to the Department for Community Development 16 What action will the Department for Community Development take if an investigation is needed? Obtaining feedback 19 19 What if I disagree with the Department? 20 Tips on dealing with disclosures 21 Safety checklist 22 Issues that may affect a decision to report 23 Frequently used terms in the Department for Community Development 27 Contact numbers for Department for Community Development offices 29 Services and organisations which can provide help, advice and support 30 1711-Protecting Children Manual-10 18/8/06 8:07 AM Page 1 Foreword Professionals working in a variety of settings, play a vital role in supporting parents to care for their children. As trusted and respected members of the community they often have established relationships with families, giving them valuable insight into the challenges they face. They play a pivotal role in linking vulnerable families to support services that can assist them to overcome personal and social stresses that lead to family breakdown and the abuse and neglect of children and young people. The early intervention role that professionals play is a crucial element of our child protection system and prevents the entry of many children and young people into care. It is a front line defence for vulnerable children and families.

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