Child Protection Policy
Philosophy Statement
At Warren we believe that every child has the right to be free from abuse of any type from any person. The protection of the child takes precedence over our responsibility to parents. It is our duty to protect the child and to prevent or stop abuse whenever possible by always being alert and sensitively aware. Back to topAims
- To be aware of the right of every child to be free from abuse of any type from any person.- To be aware of the signs and symptoms of child abuse.
- To be aware of the procedures for dealing with child abuse, if suspected. Back to top
Definition of Child Abuse
Neglect - The persistent or severe neglect of a child, which results in serious impairment of the child's health or development, including failure to thrive.Physical Abuse - Physical injury to a child which is inflicted deliberately or knowingly not prevented.
Sexual Abuse - The involvement of dependent developmentally immature children in sexual activities.
Emotional Abuse - The severe effect on the behaviour and emotional development of a child caused by persistent or severe emotional ill treatment or rejection. Back to top
Signs and Symptoms of Child Abuse
The term 'Child Abuse' encompasses all forms of ill-treatment or neglect of children by members of their family or any other person. Suspicion that a child is being abused can be aroused in many ways and staff should be alert at all time.Staff should be alert to any cuts and bruises and always inquire as to how they were come by. Staff should be particularly alert when children are changing for Physical Education.
Suspicions may be aroused in many ways eg:
- Injuries inconsistent with the age and mobility of the child.
- Injuries inconsistent with the explanation offered by child or adult.
- Delay or failure by the responsible adult to seek medical attention.
- An abnormally high incidence of minor injuries.
- Frequent absences from school with unsatisfactory explanations.
- Failure to thrive or to develop normally.
- Lethargy, tiredness, aggression or a sudden unexplained change in behaviour.
- A cowering, wary or fearful attitude towards a parent or other adult.
- Sexually inappropriate behaviour.
- Genito-urinary infections which with other factors may be incompatible with normal sources of infection.
This list is not exhaustive and any concerns that staff may have should be shared. It is possible that several people have various parts of the 'jigsaw' and the complete picture only becomes apparent when information is passed on. Back to top
Procedures
This is always a very emotive area and sensitivity must always be shown. It is important to realise that what is normal in one family may not be normal in another. However, if abuse is suspected then it is important never to promise that the information gained will not be passed on. It is also important not to suggest that you do not believe their story particularly where disclosure concerning sexual abuse is involved. Always make notes recording dates and both factual and non-factual information.Inform the nominated person immediately.
Appropriate further action will be taken in accordance with the SET procedures. All members of staff should be aware of the SET book and where it is kept.
Child Protection will be on the agenda of the first staff meeting of each academic year.
The named person at Warren is Lynda Pritchard. Incidents should be reported to Vashti Green in Mrs Pritchard's absence. If in doubt ask. Back to top