Task_1_–_1.2_Describe_the_Roles_of_Different_Agencies_Involved_in_Safeguarding_the_Welfare_of_Children_and_Young_People.

Task 1 – 1.2 Describe the roles of different agencies involved in safeguarding the welfare of children and young people. Usually parents and carers have the primary responsibility for safeguarding their children, in certain circumstances however statutory and voluntary agencies, families and friends also have responsibilities and need to be alert for safeguarding issues. The roles and responsibilities of agencies, professionals and the community are looked at below, it is important also to realise that these bodies need awareness and appreciation of each other’s roles as effective co-operation is essential. Social Services staffs, including social workers, provide a range of support and services for vulnerable Children and their families. When concern has been raised about a child, and they are thought to be at risk, Social Services have the responsibility to decide on the course of action to take. If a child is found to be at risk of harm or abuse staff will; • Carry out assessments to determine, for example: the child’s needs and the parent’s ability to meet their needs. • Meet and conduct interviews with the child and family members. • Liaise with and gather relevant information about the child and their circumstances from other agencies. • Lead the Child Protection Conference. • Take action when a child is thought to be in immediate danger. Police work closely with children’s social care and have a particular role to play. All forces have a Child Abuse Investigation Unit (CAIU). Their role and responsibilities include: • Deciding whether a crime has been committed and if it has start a criminal investigation. • Gather evidence from the other agencies involved. • Take emergency action if necessary, such as removing a child from the home. • Attend court to give evidence when a crime has been committed. Health professionals, such as GP’s and hospital Doctors examine children and if they see injuries they suspect are not accidental have a duty to alert Social Services. They may also: • Carry out medical examinations and observations of children thought to have suffered or be a risk from abuse. • Contribute to Social Services reports • Attend court to give evidence if a crime has been committed. Other health visitors such as midwives and health visitors are well placed to identify risk factors to a younger child. Schools have a responsibility to observe for signs that abuse may be happening, to know, support and protect children who are identified as being at greater risk. To develop children’s awareness and knowledge of what is acceptable and unacceptable behaviour – including when using the internet. Schools need to provide training opportunities for staff relating to safeguarding and put policies and security systems into place. They also need to keep records and share appropriate information with other agencies. There are also several voluntary organisations involved in the safeguarding of children, for example the National Society for the Protection of Children (NSPCC) and ChildLine, these work alongside the police and Social Services to protect children.