Child Welfare and Protection Procedures

Active and Creative Communities

The Children (Scotland) Act 1995 embraces the principles of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.

  • Children have a right to be protected from all forms of abuse, neglect and exploitation
  • Children should be listened to and their views taken into account in decisions affecting them
  • Agencies should work together in providing services to meet the needs of children
  • Parents should normally be responsible for the upbringing of their child and should share that responsibility

All children have a fundamental right to proper care and protection. Children may need protection when their basic needs such as food and warmth are neglected, or they may need protection from harm from other people.

Everyone has a duty and responsibility to protect all children from harm and it is a united effort between a variety of agencies to help build a full picture of any child welfare issues.

There are four different categories that would warrant a welfare form to be completed.

  • Physical Abuse
  • Sexual abuse
  • Emotional abuse
  • Neglect

 

At North Lanarkshire council, our role would be described as “Pointers and Signers.” This means if we think there is an issue with an individual, we point out the situation and signpost over to our current Child Protection Officer, Craig Smart.

If a child discloses a piece of information to you, it’s important to remember the following:

  • Only ask open questions
  • Do not finish a child sentence off (don’t put words in their mouth)
  • Don’t make any promises that you will keep this information a secret.
  • Make sure the child/young person knows that they have done the right thing by talking to you.

It’s important that we are aware of procedures in case we end up in a situation where we need to utilise them.

If a child discloses information to you and you are worried about their welfare, please complete the welfare reporting form. Please remember this information is confidential and shouldn’t be discussed or shared with anyone other than the recipient of the form.