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Safeguarding Children from Abuse and Improper Treatment Policy

Purpose and Scope

This policy outlines our commitment and procedures to safeguard all children in our care home from any form of abuse or improper treatment. It applies to all staff, volunteers, and any individuals working in or visiting our care home. The policy covers children who are accommodated as residents (under 18 years) and also sets expectations for safeguarding any visiting children on the premises. All staff must read, understand, and adhere to this policy, and it will be explained to children in our care and their families in an age-appropriate manner. A separate policy exists for safeguarding adults; this document focuses exclusively on child safeguarding.

Policy Statement

We are fully committed to promoting children’s welfare and protecting them from harm. Child safety is paramount, and we maintain a zero tolerance approach to any form of abuse, unlawful discrimination, or improper treatment. This means that neglect, degrading treatment, unnecessary or disproportionate restraint, and unauthorized deprivation of liberty are strictly prohibited in our home. Children will be treated with dignity and respect at all times, and their rights and needs will be central to all care decisions. We strive to create an environment where children feel safe, listened to, and empowered to speak up about any worries. Staff will actively promote a culture of openness and trust so that children can report concerns freely, without fear. Information is provided (in child-friendly formats) to help children understand what abuse is, how to protect themselves, and how to seek help – including contact details for external support like Childline (0800 1111), their social worker or Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO), Ofsted inspectors, or independent advocates. We listen to children’s voices and will take every allegation or concern seriously, ensuring prompt and appropriate action.

Legal and Regulatory Framework

This policy is informed by and complies with all relevant legislation and guidance in England. Key frameworks and regulations include:

Care Quality Commission (CQC) Fundamental Standards: As a CQC-registered care provider, we adhere to Regulation 13 of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014, “Safeguarding service users from abuse and improper treatment.” The intention of this regulation is to ensure no person in our care suffers any form of abuse or improper treatment. CQC requires that we have robust systems to prevent and respond to abuse, and that any suspicion or evidence of abuse is acted on immediately with appropriate investigation and referral. Failure to meet these requirements can result in regulatory action. We are committed to fully meeting this fundamental standard at all times.
Children Act 1989 and 2004: These Acts provide the legal basis for child protection in England, establishing that the welfare of the child is paramount. We will act in accordance with our duty to safeguard and promote the welfare of children under these laws.
Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018, updated): We follow this statutory multi-agency guidance which sets out how organizations should work together to protect children. In line with Working Together, our home has a Designated Safeguarding Lead and clear internal processes for safeguarding. Every organization should have “a designated professional lead (or, for health provider organisations, named professionals) for safeguarding” whose role is to support other staff in recognising and responding to children’s needs and protecting them from abuse or neglect. Our designated lead fulfills this function.
Local Safeguarding Children Partnership Procedures: We operate in cooperation with our local Safeguarding Children Partnership (formerly Local Safeguarding Children Board, LSCB). We have adopted the local authority’s child protection procedures and information-sharing protocols. This includes following local guidelines for referral of concerns, inter-agency working, and escalation of allegations. Staff have access to the local safeguarding policies and must follow the agreed multi-agency procedures. We also adhere to any local authority protocols for specific issues such as children missing from care or child sexual exploitation.
Children’s Homes (England) Regulations 2015 and Quality Standards: As our home accommodates children, we take into account the standards set for children’s residential care. In particular, Regulation 12 “The Protection of Children Standard” mandates that “children are protected from harm and enabled to keep themselves safe”. Our policy and practice are aligned with this standard. Regulation 34 of the same regulations requires us to have explicit policies on safeguarding. In compliance, this Safeguarding Children Policy includes: arrangements to protect children from abuse or neglect, clear procedures for referring child protection concerns to the placing authority or local authority, and procedures to address risks such as children going missing, e-safety (online protection), and self-harm. We also ensure allegations against staff are handled per these regulations. Furthermore, we acknowledge that Ofsted, as the regulator for children’s social care, oversees compliance with these standards. We will notify Ofsted and other relevant authorities of any serious incidents relating to child protection in accordance with Regulation 40 (notification of serious events).
Other Guidance: We also take into account guidance such as the Department for Education’s Keeping Children Safe in Education (if applicable for any educational activities) and the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 regarding barring of individuals who pose a risk.

By incorporating these laws and standards, we ensure our policy reflects the most current safeguarding requirements in England.

Definitions of Abuse and Improper Treatment

For purposes of this policy, abuse is defined as any action or inaction that harms a child or places a child at serious risk of harm. Abuse may be perpetrated by adults (including staff or visitors), by other children (peer-on-peer abuse), or by the child’s family or others outside the home. The main categories of abuse are:

Physical Abuse: Inflicting physical harm or injury on a child, or deliberately failing to prevent injury. This includes hitting, shaking, burning, inappropriate or unlawful restraint, and giving a child harmful substances.
Emotional/Psychological Abuse: Acts or omissions that cause mental anguish or harm a child’s emotional well-being. Examples include intimidation, humiliation, bullying (including cyber-bullying), harassment, isolating or ignoring a child, or exposing them to distressing situations. Witnessing the abuse of others (such as domestic violence) can also cause emotional harm.
Sexual Abuse: Forcing or enticing a child to take part in sexual activities, whether or not the child is aware of what is happening. This includes contact abuse (such as sexual assault) and non-contact abuse (such as grooming, indecent exposure, or exploitation via the internet).
Neglect: The persistent failure to meet a child’s basic physical or emotional needs, which is likely to result in serious impairment of the child’s health or development. Neglect can include inadequate provision of food, shelter, clothing, medical care, or supervision, as well as failure to protect a child from danger.

In addition, we recognize other forms of harm such as child sexual exploitation, child criminal exploitation, trafficking, and institutional abuse (abusive practices within an organization). All forms of abuse are unacceptable and will be addressed under this policy.

Improper treatment refers to any care or treatment that is inappropriate, abusive, or neglectful in nature. Under CQC Regulation 13, improper treatment specifically includes things like discrimination, punitive or degrading treatment, deliberate or unnecessary deprivation of liberty, or the use of restraint that is not necessary or proportionate to the risk of harm. In our home, any action that significantly disregards a child’s needs, demeans them, or violates their rights is considered improper and is strictly forbidden. We emphasize that no corporal punishment or any form of degrading punishment is ever allowed. Any use of restrictive practices (such as physical restraint) is only permissible as a last resort to prevent immediate harm, and never as a punishment or for staff convenience. Such interventions must follow approved techniques, be documented, and be reviewed.

All staff should be vigilant for signs of abuse or neglect, which can include (but are not limited to): unexplained injuries or bruising, sudden changes in behavior or emotional state, fearfulness around certain individuals, sexualized behavior or knowledge inappropriate for age, signs of malnutrition or poor hygiene, withdrawal or depression, etc. Any such signs must be taken seriously and reported in line with this policy.

Roles and Responsibilities

Safeguarding children is everyone’s responsibility in our care home. Specific roles are outlined below:

Registered Provider/Responsible Individual: The organization’s leadership holds ultimate accountability for ensuring effective safeguarding policies and procedures are in place. They must foster a strong safeguarding culture and ensure that sufficient resources, training, and support are available to protect children. They also ensure that this policy is reviewed regularly and updated in line with legal changes or lessons learned.
Registered Manager: The care home manager (if different from the provider) is responsible for the day-to-day implementation of safeguarding measures. The manager must ensure all staff understand and follow this policy, and that safeguarding incidents are handled properly. The manager also promotes an open, safe culture within the home and ensures compliance with both CQC and Ofsted requirements on safeguarding. In our home, the manager works closely with the Designated Safeguarding Lead to coordinate all child protection efforts.
Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): We have appointed a senior staff member as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (also sometimes referred to as the Child Protection Lead). The DSL’s name and contact information are made known to all staff and children. The DSL’s responsibilities include: being the first point of contact for any safeguarding or child protection concerns; providing expert advice and support to other staff; ensuring proper reporting and referrals to outside agencies; liaising with social services, police, and regulatory bodies; and keeping detailed records of any concerns. The DSL is also tasked with maintaining up-to-date knowledge of safeguarding best practices and ensuring the home’s policies remain current. This role aligns with the expectation of a “designated professional lead for safeguarding” whose role is to support other professionals in recognising and responding to child protection issues. The DSL has undergone advanced child protection training and will attend update training at least every two years (or more frequently as required). If the DSL is absent, a Deputy DSL or the Manager will fulfill this role.
All Staff and Volunteers: Every staff member, regardless of role or seniority, has a duty to safeguard children. Staff are expected to prioritize child welfare in all they do. Their responsibilities include:
- Understanding and following this policy: Staff must familiarize themselves with the procedures and know how to implement them. The policy is provided to all current and new staff, and the manager will ensure everyone is confident in how to use it, especially in reporting concerns.
- Vigilance: Staff should be alert to signs of abuse, neglect, or any improper practice. They should also be mindful that children might be at risk from various sources – it could be abuse by family members, peers (e.g. bullying or peer-on-peer abuse), strangers, or even colleagues. Staff must therefore monitor children’s well-being closely and maintain professional boundaries at all times.
- Building trust: As part of prevention, staff should build positive relationships with children, creating a supportive atmosphere. A culture of openness means children feel safe to voice concerns. Staff are expected to encourage children to speak about any worries and listen to them attentively. They should reassure children that they will be helped and taken seriously.
- Reporting and recording: If a staff member has any concern that a child may be experiencing (or at risk of) abuse or neglect, or if a child discloses information, the staff member must act immediately. They must follow the reporting procedures outlined in this policy (see next section) – which generally means informing the DSL or manager without delay and documenting the concern. Staff should never assume someone else will report it. It is better to raise a concern that turns out to be unfounded than to miss a situation of actual harm.
- Professional integrity: Staff must cooperate fully with any investigations (internal or external) and maintain confidentiality as appropriate. They should also feel empowered to challenge or question any practice they feel is unsafe or inappropriate (see Whistleblowing section). Additionally, staff are responsible for maintaining appropriate training (attending required safeguarding training sessions) and seeking guidance when unsure about a situation.
Ancillary Staff and Contractors: All people who work at the home in any capacity (such as cooks, cleaners, maintenance staff, therapists, etc.) as well as frequent contractors or agency staff are also expected to comply with this policy. They receive a basic safeguarding briefing and know how to report concerns. Contractors on site will be supervised if they have not undergone vetting, and they are not allowed unsupervised contact with children until all checks are complete.
Children and Families: While the primary responsibility rests with adults, we encourage children in our care to be active participants in their own safety. We educate them (at a level appropriate to their age/understanding) about their rights, about what is appropriate or not in how others treat them, and how to get help. We let them know they can speak to any trusted adult in the home about worries. We also involve families/guardians (where appropriate and safe) in safeguarding plans and keep them informed of any concerns or incidents, in line with confidentiality rules.

In summary, everyone in our organization is responsible for safeguarding. We foster a team approach where safeguarding is a standing agenda item in meetings, and staff are encouraged to continuously improve our practices. The Registered Person (Provider/Manager) will also ensure that external notifications and liaisons occur as required (with regulatory bodies, local authorities, etc.) and that learning from any incidents is integrated into practice.

Safe Recruitment and Staffing

We are committed to preventing harm by ensuring that we only employ suitable, vetted individuals to work with children. Our recruitment process follows safer recruitment principles:

All prospective staff and volunteers undergo rigorous screening, including an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check (with barred list check for working with children) prior to confirmation of employment. Proof of identity, verified references, full employment history, and explanation of any gaps in employment are required.
During interviews, we include questions about candidates’ attitude toward children and safeguarding scenarios to gauge their suitability.
No staff member is allowed to work unsupervised with children until all checks are completed and cleared.
We check professional registers where applicable (e.g. NMC or HCPC registration for nurses/therapists) and ensure staff are properly qualified.
All new hires receive a thorough induction, including a briefing on child protection policies, codes of conduct, and how to report concerns. They must sign to indicate they have read and understood the Safeguarding Children Policy.
We have a clear Staff Code of Conduct that outlines appropriate boundaries and behaviours. Staff must not engage in any behavior that could be misconstrued or that exploits the power imbalance with children. Any breach of the Code of Conduct is taken seriously and may result in disciplinary action.
Supervision and support: Staff (especially those working closely with children) receive regular supervision meetings where they can discuss any worries about a child or seek guidance. We promote reflective practice and provide support, recognising that safeguarding can be emotionally challenging.
Staffing levels: We maintain appropriate staffing ratios and mix of staff to ensure adequate supervision of children at all times. Duty rotas are planned to avoid lone working in situations that might pose risks. High-risk times or activities are identified and staffed accordingly.
If we engage agency staff or contractors who will have contact with children, we ensure the agency has carried out the necessary checks, or we conduct our own checks as needed. We obtain written confirmation of DBS checks for agency personnel.

By following these safe recruitment and staffing measures, we reduce the risk of harm and create a safe environment from the outset.

Training and Awareness

Continuous training is critical to effective safeguarding. All staff, from management to frontline carers to ancillary staff, receive training in child protection appropriate to their role:

Induction Training: Upon joining, staff are given basic safeguarding children training, covering how to recognize abuse, how to respond to disclosures, and internal reporting procedures. They are made aware of this policy and key guidance such as Working Together to Safeguard Children.
Level-Specific Training: Care staff and managers undertake more in-depth safeguarding training (often referred to as Level 2 or 3 training for child protection) from accredited providers. The Designated Safeguarding Lead and senior staff attend advanced/multi-agency safeguarding training to fulfil their responsibilities.
Refresher Training: Safeguarding training is not a one-time event. We schedule mandatory refresher training for all staff at least annually, and more comprehensive updates every 2-3 years. The organization keeps records of all training completed. We ensure that “skills in safeguarding are gained, refreshed and recorded in the home’s workforce plan” as recommended by best practice.
Specialized Training: Where relevant, staff also receive training on specific risks such as child sexual exploitation, online safety (e-safety), radicalization (Prevent duty), managing self-harm, or disabilities and safeguarding, depending on the needs of our resident group.
Management Training: The Registered Manager and any deputies receive training on safer recruitment, managing allegations, and leadership in safeguarding, to ensure they can competently oversee these areas.
Ongoing Awareness: Safeguarding is reinforced through regular team meetings, supervisions, and internal newsletters. We conduct periodic scenario discussions or drills (for example, discussing “what would you do if…?” cases) to keep awareness high. Important updates in law or local procedures are promptly communicated to the team.
Evaluation: We evaluate the effectiveness of training through staff feedback, quizzes or discussions, observation of practice, and during supervision. If gaps in knowledge are identified, additional training or coaching is provided.

Our commitment is that all care home managers and staff are trained in their responsibilities for reporting and recording concerns about abuse or neglect. Staff are also trained on maintaining professional boundaries and understanding the vulnerabilities of the children in our care. Training empowers staff to feel confident in identifying signs of abuse and knowing how to act on them. Ultimately, an informed and skilled staff group is one of our best defenses against child abuse.

Preventative Safeguarding Measures

In addition to training and safe recruitment, we implement several proactive measures to minimize the risk of abuse or improper treatment:

Strong Safeguarding Culture: The management fosters an environment where safeguarding is embedded in our daily practice. We regularly talk about safeguarding in meetings and encourage staff to raise even small concerns. The Registered Person works to build a “strong safeguarding culture in the home where children are listened to, respected and involved”. Children are actively encouraged to share their feelings about the care they receive. We treat any complaint or concern from a child with utmost seriousness and respect.
Child Involvement and Education: Staff support children to understand what abuse is in an age-appropriate way (for example, explaining their right to say “no” to anything that makes them uncomfortable, teaching them about safe vs. unsafe touches, and how to get help). Children are informed on how to report abuse and that they will be protected when they do so. They are provided with access to private means of communication (a phone to call Childline or their social worker, for instance) so they can seek advice and help outside the home if needed. We encourage children to identify trusted adults they can talk to.
Risk Assessment: Each child in our care has an individual risk assessment and care plan that considers any vulnerabilities or risks specific to that child (e.g. risk of going missing, risk of self-harm, risk of abuse from family contact, etc.). These risk assessments are reviewed regularly. If a child is known to be at particular risk (for example, a history of abuse or a tendency to run away), we put in place a safety plan with strategies to minimize those risks.
Safe Environment: We ensure the physical environment of the home is safe and protective. This includes secure premises (to prevent unauthorized entry or a child leaving unsupervised), good visibility in communal areas, and private spaces where appropriate for personal care but with safeguards (e.g. staff knocking before entering bedrooms). We monitor for any blind spots in supervision. Any hazards that could facilitate abuse (like secluded areas) are addressed. We also use surveillance or monitoring systems only in line with regulations and for safety purposes, balancing privacy and safety appropriately.
Boundaries on Technology (E-Safety): We recognize the digital world poses risks (such as online grooming, access to harmful content, or cyberbullying). Our staff supervise and guide children’s use of internet and electronic devices in the home according to each child’s care plan. We have filters on home internet where possible and rules about appropriate use of social media or devices. Staff remain vigilant to signs that a child may be experiencing online abuse and will address it. Our safeguarding policy encompasses e-safety measures to protect children from online exploitation or harm. We educate children about online safety and what to do if they encounter something unsafe online.
Health and Personal Care: Proper attention is given to each child’s physical and emotional health. Neglect is prevented by ensuring children’s basic needs (food, clothing, warmth, medical care, education, stimulation, affection) are consistently met. Any indicators of neglect (weight loss, poor hygiene, etc.) are investigated. We keep records of medical appointments, nutrition, etc., to ensure needs are met.
Positive Relationships and Supervision: Staff aim to develop positive relationships with children built on trust, not fear. This reduces the likelihood of abusive patterns. We also supervise peer interactions. We are aware that sometimes abuse can occur between children; thus, we have an anti-bullying policy and staff intervene early in any conflicts. Children who bully others or display sexually harmful behavior will receive support and clear boundaries, and victims will be supported and protected.
Transparency: The home welcomes external oversight. Parents (where appropriate), social workers, and other professionals are encouraged to visit and check on the child’s well-being. Ofsted inspectors can visit unannounced. We maintain an open-door policy with regulators and encourage feedback. By not operating in isolation or secrecy, we make it harder for abuse to go unnoticed.
Whistleblowing Culture: (Detailed further below) Staff are encouraged and expected to speak up about any concerns, including concerns about colleagues or the organization’s practices, without fear of reprisal. Management commits to handling such reports sensitively and fairly.

By taking these preventative steps, we aim to create an environment where abuse is extremely unlikely to occur. However, we remain prepared to act swiftly if a concern does arise.

Recognising and Reporting Abuse

Despite preventative measures, staff must be prepared that abuse or neglect could happen in or outside the home. Early recognition and reporting are crucial. Our policy for recognising and reporting is as follows:

Recognising Abuse: All staff are trained to recognize possible indicators of abuse or neglect (as outlined in the Definitions section). These can be physical signs (injuries, poor hygiene, weight changes), behavioral signs (anxiety, aggression, withdrawal, sexualized behavior), or verbal disclosures. Staff should also be alert to less obvious signs, such as a child receiving unexplained gifts (possible grooming), a child being very fearful of a particular individual, or a child hinting at secrets or problems. We stress the importance of professional curiosity – looking beyond the immediate appearance and considering what might be happening in a child’s life.

Immediate Safety: If at any point a child is in immediate danger or needs urgent medical attention, staff will take immediate action. This could include calling emergency services (999) for police or ambulance. The first priority is always to ensure the child is safe from immediate harm. Staff should only intervene directly (for example, separating a child from an abusive individual) if it’s safe to do so; otherwise, they should observe and call for help.

Internal Reporting Procedure: As soon as a staff member suspects or knows of a safeguarding concern, they must report it internally without delay:

Report to the DSL/Manager: The staff member should inform the Designated Safeguarding Lead (or on-duty Manager) as soon as possible, verbally and following up with a written record. This should happen on the same day – ideally immediately after ensuring the child’s safety. If the allegation involves the DSL or Manager, then the staff member should report to the next most senior person or directly to the Responsible Individual (or even directly to external authorities as needed – see Escalation below).
Provide a full account: The reporting staff should write a factual account of what they observed or what the child said, and any actions taken. This report should be signed and dated. We have standard safeguarding incident report forms for this purpose. It’s important to record exact words spoken by the child if it was a disclosure, and to avoid assumptions or interpretations – just the facts.
Preserve evidence: If the concern involves potential physical evidence (e.g., the child’s clothing, text messages on a phone, etc.), staff should secure it if possible and preserve it without contamination, following guidance from police if applicable.
Maintain confidentiality: Apart from informing the DSL/Manager, the staff member must not discuss the concern with others, including colleagues, to protect confidentiality (except if discussing with authorities or as part of the process). They should certainly not confront the person accused if it’s a staff member or carer, as this could alert them or jeopardize evidence.

Management/DSL actions on receiving a report:

How to Report:

Verbally report the concern immediately to a staff member.

Send an email detailing the concern to the Registered Manager at: {{org_field_registered_manager_email}}.

Call the office to inform the Registered Manager at {{org_field_phone_no}}.

If the concern arises out of office hours, call the out-of-hours phone number: {{out_of_hours}}.

Website: {{org_field_website}} – using the contact form provided

Children Local Authority: {{org_field_children_safeguarding_local_authority_authority_name}}

Information link: {{org_field_children_safeguarding_local_authority_information_link}}

• Care Quality Commission (CQC): Call 03000 616161 for concerns about care standards or regulatory breaches.

• Local Authority Adult Safeguarding Teams: {{org_field_local_authority_authority_name}},

Link: {{org_field_local_authority_information_link}} for concerns related to abuse or neglect.

• Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC): www.equalityhumanrights.com for serious human rights violations.

The DSL will assess the information urgently, consulting with the Manager if needed (or vice versa if Manager received the report). They will consider if the child is at ongoing risk and ensure safety measures are in place (e.g., alleged abuser removed from contact with child).
The DSL will refer to local safeguarding children procedures to decide next steps. In almost all cases of suspected abuse, the expectation is to refer the matter to the local authority Children’s Social Care (Social Services) without delay. We will not investigate the matter internally beyond preliminary fact-finding needed to decide on referral – full investigations are for statutory authorities (social services and police).
Within the same working day (and within 24 hours at most), the DSL or Manager will make a child protection referral to the relevant local authority team (this could be the Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub – MASH, or the duty social worker). We provide all available information to aid the assessment.
If there is uncertainty about whether the threshold for external referral is met, the DSL may consult with the local authority safeguarding duty line for advice without necessarily giving identifying details initially. However, our default stance is “refer rather than miss something” – we err on the side of caution and let the experts determine the next steps.
If the allegation could constitute a crime (e.g., sexual abuse, physical assault), the DSL will also ensure that the police are informed (either via the local authority referral or directly if needed). For serious crimes or immediate response, we contact the police directly.
The DSL/Manager documents all actions taken, including times, dates, and the outcomes of any consultations or referrals. If for some reason a decision is made not to refer to external agencies, the reasons must be recorded clearly (along with who made that decision), and the situation will be closely monitored. (However, not referring is rare and only if the issue clearly does not meet any risk thresholds).

We reinforce that no staff member should ever keep concerns to themselves or attempt to investigate on their own. Our policy, consistent with regulatory guidance, is that “where any form of abuse is suspected, occurs, is discovered, or is reported, the provider must take appropriate action without delay, including investigation and/or referral to the appropriate body”.

Reporting by Children: We treat disclosures by children with the utmost care. If a child confides in a staff member about abuse (whether it happened in our home, in their family, or elsewhere):

The staff member will listen calmly and reassuringly, not asking leading questions or pressuring the child for more information than they volunteer. The staff member will thank the child for telling them, and reassure them that it’s right to tell.
The child will not be promised confidentiality. Instead, the staff member will gently explain that they need to tell certain people who can help, but only those who need to know.
The same reporting process as above is followed immediately after the conversation. We will also seek to ensure the child is supported throughout (not left alone distressed, etc.). We might involve a trusted person to comfort the child if appropriate (so long as that person is not implicated).
Children are given feedback (appropriate to their age) about what will happen next, so they don’t feel left in the dark. They will be involved in decisions and listened to regarding how they feel about any immediate arrangements (for example, if the alleged abuser is a staff member, the child may worry about repercussions – we will assure them the person won’t be allowed near them, etc.).

Escalation if needed: If any staff member feels that a safeguarding concern they raised internally is not being taken seriously or acted upon appropriately by management, they have a right (and duty) to escalate the concern to external authorities themselves. They can contact the local Children’s Social Care directly, or the police if urgent. They may also use the whistleblowing avenues described later. Under no circumstances will we penalize or discourage staff for making a legitimate report in good faith, even if it turns out to be unfounded.

Informing Parents/Carers: In general, if a child protection referral is made, the parents or legal guardians of the child should be informed by the DSL or Manager – unless doing so could put the child at greater risk or impede a police investigation (for example, if a parent is the alleged abuser). The decision about informing parents is made in consultation with social services. We follow social services’ advice on this point. The child’s wishes (if they have a view on parental involvement) will also be considered, depending on age and understanding.

After a referral: Once a referral is made, our home will cooperate fully with the subsequent investigation or assessment by social services and/or police. This could involve providing further information, attending strategy meetings or case conferences, or contributing to multi-agency plans. The DSL will coordinate our cooperation. We understand we might be asked to not discuss the case further internally to avoid contaminating evidence, and we will abide by that. If a strategy meeting is called, the Manager/DSL will attend and share what we know.

Recording: All safeguarding concerns and actions are documented and stored securely (separate from the general child’s file, accessible only to those who need to know). Records will include a chronology of events, conversations, decisions made, and justifications. These records may be needed for external investigations or inspections.

Managing Allegations Against Staff or Volunteers

Allegations that a member of staff or volunteer has abused or harmed a child (or behaved in a way that poses a risk of abuse) are taken extremely seriously. We have a clear procedure to handle such situations, aligned with statutory guidance and local authority protocols:

Immediate Action (Protect Child and Report): If the allegation involves a current staff member or volunteer, we will ensure the child’s immediate safety (this might mean removing the staff member from direct contact with children) and then inform the Registered Manager and DSL right away (unless of course the allegation is against the Manager, in which case the Responsible Individual or designated senior in the organization is informed). The child’s allegation will be listened to and respected. We will provide any medical attention or comfort to the child as needed.
Do Not Investigate Internally First: Staff will not start asking the accused person about the allegation or undertaking any investigation on their own. Instead, the Manager/DSL will proceed to contact the appropriate external authorities promptly, as required by law.
Informing LADO: In England, every local authority has a Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) whose role is to oversee investigations into allegations against people who work with children. We will contact the LADO without delay for any allegation that meets the threshold (e.g., a staff member has harmed a child, may have committed a crime against a child, or has behaved in a way that indicates they may pose a risk to children). “The relevant officer or team within the local authority should be informed promptly of all allegations that come to an employer’s attention…”. This means as soon as we become aware of an allegation, the Manager or DSL will call the LADO (or their team) to report it and seek guidance on next steps. We comply with local safeguarding procedures on managing staff allegations, which likely involve filling out a referral form for the LADO and not taking further action until LADO direction.
Notifying Authorities: In addition to the LADO, we will also notify other authorities as required. If the allegation is of a serious nature, we will inform Ofsted (since this is a significant event in a children’s care setting) within the required time frame – typically immediately or within 24 hours. As a CQC-registered provider, if the allegation concerns harm to a child in our regulated care, we may also inform the CQC (CQC expects notification of abuse allegations under its notification requirements). We will also inform the child’s placing authority (social worker) if the child is looked-after, or the local authority children’s social care if not already aware. Police will be informed as well if a crime is alleged.
Safeguarding Measures for Staff: While the allegation is being investigated, the staff member involved will be removed from direct contact with children. This may involve suspension (on full pay) or a temporary transfer to duties not involving child contact, pending the outcome of investigation. This is to protect children and also to ensure the integrity of the investigation (it is not a presumption of guilt). We will handle this process confidentially, informing only the necessary people. The staff member will be treated fairly and given a named contact person for support, but we will prioritize child safety above all. They will be instructed not to contact any children or families involved in the allegation.
Investigation Process: We will cooperate fully with the LADO and any police/social services investigation. Typically, the LADO will convene a strategy meeting if the allegation meets criteria, which our manager or DSL will attend. We may be asked to conduct an internal fact-finding or to wait for police investigation. We will follow the directions given. If the police decide to criminally investigate, we’ll await their outcome before doing any internal disciplinary investigation. If the police/social services decide no further action in terms of criminal or protective action, we may still conduct our own inquiry to see if any misconduct or policy breach occurred that needs addressing.
Outcome and Actions: Depending on the outcome of investigations:
- If an allegation is substantiated (meaning evidence found that abuse or misconduct occurred), the staff member will face appropriate disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal. We will also make a referral to the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) so they can consider barring the person from working with children in future, as required by law when anyone is dismissed or removed from working with children due to harm/risk of harm.
- If the allegation was a misunderstanding or unsubstantiated after thorough investigation, we will consider if the person can return to work (perhaps with additional training or supervision if needed). We will also support the person’s reputation appropriately (confidentially) and ensure the child involved is informed of the outcome and provided support to understand it.
- If the allegation is found to be malicious or false, we will not only support the staff member but also consider what follow-up is needed for the person (child) who made the false claim (recognising that such a claim might indicate other issues or need for support).
Learning and Reporting: After any allegation case, the Manager and DSL will debrief (in consultation with the LADO if appropriate) to identify any lessons learned, such as gaps in procedures or training needs, and implement improvements. We also report the outcome to Ofsted and CQC as needed. All records of allegations are kept confidentially on the staff member’s file (with outcomes) and in a central log for monitoring.

Throughout this process, our priority remains the safety and well-being of children, but we also strive to handle matters fairly and in line with employment law for staff. By promptly involving the LADO and other authorities, we ensure transparency and adherence to local authority protocols for managing allegations against people who work with children.

Confidentiality and Information Sharing

We recognize that handling safeguarding information requires a careful balance of confidentiality and necessary information sharing:

Confidentiality: We respect the privacy of our children and families. Information about safeguarding concerns will be shared on a “need to know” basis only. This means internally, only those who need to be involved (such as the DSL, Manager, and perhaps a keyworker or admin helping with records) will know details. Other staff may be told only what is necessary for caring for the child (for instance, to be extra observant, or any safety measures in place), without sharing sensitive personal details if not required.
We ensure all records are kept secure (locked files or password-protected electronic records). We do not divulge information to other parents or children. Staff are reminded not to gossip or share any confidential details with unauthorized persons.
Sharing with Agencies: Safety overrides confidentiality. If a child is at risk of harm, we are legally permitted and obligated to share relevant information with statutory agencies (children’s social care, police, LADO, etc.) even without consent. Data protection (GDPR) is not a barrier when it comes to safeguarding children – the law allows information sharing for the purposes of child protection. We follow the guidance, “Information sharing: advice for practitioners” and any local protocols on how to share safely and appropriately.
We aim to share information promptly and accurately with the right people. When making referrals or reports, we include all pertinent details (child’s information, nature of concern, context, etc.) to enable an effective response. If we are unsure about sharing certain information, the DSL may seek advice from the local authority or refer to the seven golden rules of information sharing from government guidance.
Consent: If appropriate and feasible, we seek consent from the child (if of sufficient age/maturity) or their parent before sharing information – but only if doing so does not increase risk. If a parent is the alleged abuser, obviously we would not seek their consent to refer. If consent is refused and we still believe the child is at risk, we share the information anyway, noting that we are acting in the child’s best interests under safeguarding laws.
Inter-agency Cooperation: We cooperate with any multi-agency plans or protection plans for a child. This includes attending meetings (like child protection conferences or core group meetings) and sharing updates on the child’s progress or any further concerns. We keep the child’s social worker informed about significant events.
Access to Policies: Staff have access to local LSCB (Safeguarding Children Board) information-sharing procedures and must adhere to them. For example, staff are aware of any local protocol documents that outline how and when to share information with different agencies. They are also aware of internal policies on confidentiality.
Record-Keeping: All decisions on information sharing (what was shared and with whom) are documented. If we decide not to share certain information, we document the rationale for that too.
Child Access to Information: Children (and their parents, depending on age and circumstances) have the right to access certain records about them. We handle any such requests in line with data protection law, taking care not to release any information that might jeopardize someone else’s privacy or a legal investigation. Typically, safeguarding records are exempt from full access if it could compromise investigations or include third-party information.

In summary, we handle sensitive information with care. The guiding principle is that the safety of the child is the most important consideration, so we will share information with the necessary people to protect the child, while otherwise maintaining appropriate levels of confidentiality. All staff are trained in these principles and know that a failure to share information in a timely way can allow harm to continue, so they are encouraged to err on the side of sharing with the DSL/Manager, who can then decide further dissemination.

Whistleblowing and Escalation

We are committed to an open culture where staff can raise concerns about malpractice or poor practices without fear. Whistleblowing is when staff bypass the normal hierarchy to report serious concerns (for example, if they think nothing is being done about a risk, or they suspect wrongdoing by management). In the context of safeguarding, this could mean a staff member reporting that a concern is being ignored, or that there is a culture of covering up abuse.

We have a Whistleblowing Policy (internal) that all staff are made aware of. As part of their safeguarding responsibilities, staff are informed that they can report concerns externally if needed. It is emphasized that all care homes must have a whistleblowing policy to guide staff in raising concerns where they feel unable to do so internally or if they have done so and no action was taken.
Internal Process: Staff are encouraged first to use the normal reporting channels (report to DSL/Manager) for any issue. However, if that is not effective or if the concern involves those channels, they can escalate. They can approach the Responsible Individual or a senior person in the organization not directly involved. We also provide a way to report anonymously or confidentially (for example, a confidential email or drop-box) if a staff member fears backlash.
External Avenues: We prominently display and circulate information on how to contact external bodies for whistleblowing. This includes:
- The CQC (Care Quality Commission) – which accepts whistleblowing concerns about care services.
- Ofsted – for issues specifically about children’s social care, staff can contact Ofsted’s whistleblowing hotline if they feel the need.
- The Local Authority Safeguarding Team – staff can report directly any child protection concerns.
- NSPCC Whistleblowing Helpline – a national helpline (currently 0800 028 0285) specifically for professionals to get advice or report concerns about how child protection issues are being handled in their organization.
We make clear that no one will suffer adverse consequences for whistleblowing in good faith. Retaliation against someone who raises a genuine concern is a serious disciplinary matter in itself. Management and the Provider will support and protect whistleblowers.
Responsive to Concerns: When a whistleblowing report is made, the organization will treat it seriously and investigate as appropriate. Even if the report turns out not to reveal wrongdoing, the person raising it will not be punished if it was done with honest intentions.
Freedom to Speak Up: We incorporate principles from the Francis Review “Freedom to speak up” to empower staff to voice concerns. This means encouraging a climate where speaking up is normal and welcomed.
Staff are also made aware that they must report any concerns about a colleague or practice even if it’s uncomfortable – protecting children comes first. They are reminded of their professional duty and the potential legal duty (e.g., wilful neglect offenses in some contexts).
We periodically survey or ask staff if they feel able to speak up and make adjustments to ensure the whistleblowing process feels safe.

By having a robust whistleblowing framework, we ensure there is an avenue to catch and address issues that might otherwise go unreported through normal channels. This supports our overall safeguarding system.

Responding to Specific Situations

The following sections outline how we handle certain specific safeguarding scenarios that can arise in a residential care setting for children.

1. Missing or Absent Children: Children leaving the home without permission or going missing is a serious safeguarding issue, as they could be at risk while missing. We have a separate detailed policy on Missing Children, but in summary:

We conduct risk assessments for any child likely to go missing and have strategies in place (per the child’s placement plan) to minimize this risk.
Staff supervise appropriately and use de-escalation to discourage running away. If a child is absent without permission, staff will follow them (if appropriate and safe) and try to persuade them to return. If a child actually goes missing (cannot be located), we follow the local Runaway and Missing From Home and Care (RMFHC) Protocol. We will immediately search the premises and local area, inform the on-call manager, then notify the police (usually within 30 minutes to an hour depending on the assessed risk level, or immediately if the child is very vulnerable).
We also notify the child’s social worker and family (if appropriate) as per the protocol.
When the child returns, we welcome them back, ensure they are okay (medical attention if needed, food, warmth), and try to understand why they ran. We arrange an Independent Return Home Interview per statutory guidance – someone not involved in the home (often from a commissioned service or the social worker) speaks to the child about the reasons and any safeguarding issues. We update the child’s placement plan to address any new concerns.
All missing episodes are recorded and reviewed in staff meetings to see if any patterns or preventive measures can be improved.

2. Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) and Child Criminal Exploitation (CCE): We are alert to the signs that a child might be being groomed or exploited by individuals outside the home (or potentially by other residents). Such signs can include inexplicable gifts, changes in behavior, talking about new older friends or going to parties, absences, or signs of drug/alcohol use. If we suspect CSE or CCE:

We will follow the safeguarding procedures (report to social care, police) as these are forms of abuse.
We also utilize any local multi-agency resources, like a CSE specialist team or exploitation screening tool, to assess the risk.
Staff educate children (where age-appropriate) about healthy relationships and the dangers of exploitation. We try to build resilience and trust so they can share worries.

3. Self-Harm and Suicide Risks: Some children in care may have emotional trauma leading to self-harming behaviours or suicidal thoughts. Our safeguarding duty includes protecting them from self-inflicted harm. We have clear procedures:

If a child is self-harming, staff intervene to ensure immediate safety and provide first aid if needed. We show understanding and do not punish the behavior, but rather provide support.
We inform mental health professionals or arrange a psychiatric evaluation if the risk is significant. The placing authority is notified, and a strategy (safety plan) is made.
Our policy (per Regulation 34) specifically covers countering risks of self-harm and suicide, meaning we train staff on these issues and have guidelines to reduce risks (for example, removing means, increasing supervision, therapeutic interventions).
All instances of serious self-harm are treated as safeguarding matters and may be reported to social services and Ofsted as required (serious incident).
We also ensure the child gets emotional support, possibly counselling or CAMHS involvement. Staff document all incidents and have debriefs to improve care strategies.

4. Bullying: Bullying among children can constitute abuse (emotional or physical). We do not tolerate bullying in any form. If bullying is identified:

Staff separate the individuals and address the behavior immediately. The child who bullied is helped to understand why it’s unacceptable and monitored. The victim is comforted and assured it will be dealt with.
We create a plan (possibly involving keywork sessions, apologies, increased supervision, activities that build empathy) to prevent recurrence. If needed, external professionals might be consulted for group dynamics.
Parents/social workers are informed as appropriate. Serious or persistent bullying can lead to review of placements if one child cannot be kept safe otherwise.

5. Peer Abuse: Sometimes more serious abuse can occur between children (peer-on-peer abuse), including sexual assaults or severe physical harm. We handle this with the same gravity as any abuse:

Both the victim and the perpetrator are children, so each will have their own support and possibly separate social workers. We ensure the victim’s safety (which may involve moving one of the children to a different placement if needed).
The incident is reported to authorities (police and social services) for investigation.
We provide medical care and counselling for the victim, and also psychological help for the perpetrator since such behavior often stems from their own experiences. But we do not allow them to remain in contact if it’s not safe.
A strategy meeting with multi-agency input will decide how to proceed to safeguard both children.

6. Abuse by Visitors or External Individuals: If any allegation arises that a visitor (family member, friend, visiting professional) has abused a child on our premises or a child alleges abuse by someone outside (like family):

We take immediate protective action (ensure the person is not allowed further contact, perhaps banning them pending investigation).
We report to social services/police just as with any other allegation.
We support the child through any family issues. For instance, if abuse by a parent is alleged, we’ll facilitate the child’s protection which may involve them not returning to that parent’s care pending inquiries and giving evidence if needed.

In all scenarios, our approach is child-centered: we consider the best interests of the child, involve them in decisions as appropriate, and ensure they have the support (advocacy, therapy, etc.) they need. We continuously update risk assessments and placement plans after incidents to improve future safety.

Monitoring and Review of Policy

To ensure that this Safeguarding Children Policy remains effective and up-to-date:

Regular Review: The policy will be reviewed at least annually by the Registered Person (Manager/Provider) or more frequently if there are changes in legislation or guidance, or in response to a significant incident or learning outcome. We track updates in national safeguarding guidance (e.g., updates to Working Together, new CQC/Ofsted guidance, etc.) to incorporate any necessary changes. The next scheduled review date and the version history are recorded in the document control section of the policy (if applicable).
Consultation: We involve staff, and where feasible, feedback from children and families in reviewing the policy. This could be done through team meetings, safeguarding committee discussions, or after-action reviews of cases. Input from our Designated Safeguarding Lead is critical, and we may also seek advice from our local safeguarding partnership or external safeguarding consultant to validate our policy.
Audit and Compliance Checks: The management will conduct periodic audits of safeguarding practices. This may include checking that all staff have read the policy, quizsing staff on key procedures, ensuring records of concerns are properly kept, and that referrals have been made appropriately. We also ensure that requirements such as “all staff are familiar with this policy and act in accordance with it” are met in practice. Shortfalls or non-compliance found in audits will be addressed immediately.
Incidents and Learnings: Any safeguarding incidents or near-misses are logged and reviewed to see if policy or procedure changes are warranted. For example, if an incident revealed a gap in our process, we will amend the policy to close that gap. We also incorporate any recommendations from case reviews, inspections, or inquiries.
Ofsted/CQC Feedback: As a regulated service, we pay close attention to inspector feedback on our safeguarding arrangements. If an inspection (by CQC or Ofsted) identifies an area for improvement in how we safeguard children, we will update our policy and practice accordingly. Conversely, positive feedback confirms the effectiveness of our current policy.
Staff Acknowledgment: Whenever the policy is updated, all staff are informed of the changes and required to read the new version. We may hold a briefing or training session on any major updates to ensure understanding. New staff continue to receive the policy at induction.
Link to Other Policies: We ensure this policy works in harmony with related policies such as the Safeguarding Adults Policy, Missing Persons Policy, Behavior Management Policy, Use of Restraint Policy, Online Safety Policy, and Whistleblowing Policy. Cross-references are checked on review to keep consistency.

By systematically monitoring and reviewing this policy, we remain vigilant and proactive in our safeguarding duty. Our goal is to continuously strengthen our approach so that children in our care are as safe as possible from abuse or improper treatment.

Conclusion

Safeguarding children is a fundamental priority for our care home. Through the clear guidelines set out in this policy – underpinned by law, regulatory standards, and our organizational values – we aim to create a secure, caring environment where children can thrive free from abuse and harm. All managers and staff are expected to not only comply with the letter of this policy but also embrace its spirit, fostering a vigilant, compassionate culture of safeguarding.

By working together, remaining child-centered, and responding swiftly to concerns, we commit to upholding the trust placed in us to protect the children in our care. This policy will be available to every staff member, child, and parent/guardian upon request, and its principles are regularly reinforced. We stand ready to take immediate and decisive action against abuse or improper treatment in any form, and to continually improve our practices in light of experience and evolving best practice.

Sources / References:

Care Quality Commission (CQC) Fundamental Standards – Regulation 13: Safeguarding from abuse and improper treatment .
Children’s Homes (England) Regulations 2015 – Regulation 12: Protection of Children standard and Regulation 34: Policies for the protection of children; Guide to the Children’s Homes Regulations including Quality Standards (DfE, 2015) for best practice guidance .
Working Together to Safeguard Children (HM Government, 2018) – multi-agency safeguarding requirements, including designated safeguarding lead role and LADO involvement in managing allegations.
SCIE (Social Care Institute for Excellence) guidance on safeguarding in care homes – importance of training and whistleblowing.
Local Safeguarding Children Board (LSCB) procedures – information sharing and referral protocols.
Internal Policies of {{org_field_name}} – including Whistleblowing Policy, Missing Child Policy, Code of Conduct (referenced within this document for alignment).

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CH52-Safeguarding Children from Abuse and Improper Treatment Policy