Understanding_What_Increases_a_Child's_Vulnerability_to_Abuse

K4D793 We recognise the need for children to take part in physical exercise and activities. We understand that, especially in the winter months, children may not get as much ‘outdoor’ activities. At Brick by Brick we offer outside ‘free flow’ outdoor planned activities, which take into account the stage and age appropriateness of the children in our care. We plan our outdoor curriculum to take into account the time of year and weather conditions, and practitioners are not put off outdoor activities just because it may be cold. We are fortunate to have large awning type umbrellas, which offer adequate shelter even during wet conditions. We understand that as long as the children are dressed adequately for the weather conditions, they can let off steam, realise pent up energy. Children being able to run around increases the heart rate, which is good for physical well being and can help to burn any excess calories. We find that outdoor physical play provides opportunities for children to play in a different way, for example, our obstacle course, will lead to children to use increased stamina and take turns playing cooperatively. K4H799 There are many influences on children’s health and safety, which can impact on their lives. As practitioners, we have a responsibility to maintain children’s health and well-being whilst they are in our care. However, we also need to recognise that there may influencing factors outside our control. Environmental A child’s home can have a huge impact on their health and safety, for example they may be residing in poor housing without clean water or sanitation. Adequate heating and ventilation is also needed for a child’s well being. Cultural/Ethnic This factor can include attitudes towards diet and viewpoints regarding suitable diets for children. Different medical attitudes towards medical practices can also influence a child’s health and safety, for example, Jehovah’s Witnesses many of whom do not accept blood transfusions. Also female circumcision would have a huge impact on female children’s health and well being, although illegal in this country it is still carried out in some African countries. Language and Communication If a child is unable to effectively communicate and language is a barrier between a child and adults within the setting, their health and safety can be compromised, as children may lack an understanding of the boundaries and rules placed on play for their own safety and not see the possible risks. Abilities and Disabilities Children with disabilities can be put at unnecessary risks if the individual needs are not fully understood and provided for. It is vital that all practitioners are aware of all children’s medical and disabilities and how to effectively deal with them confidentially. K4S794/795/800 As practitioners, it is vital that we are aware of the factors that can increase a child’s vulnerability to abuse and exploitation. There are certain factors in a child’s background that may make them more vulnerable or susceptible to abuse. For example: Looked after Children Children in LA care are cared for in a closed environment, they may experience abusive carers, who abuse their positions of trust. This may lead to the child feeling isolated moreover; they may find it difficult to disclose information due to a lack of trust in adults. Child with a Disability For a parent or carer, caring for a child with a disability can be tiring, frustrating and isolating. Where a parent has responsibility for the physical care of a child with a disability, they may find it difficult to manage and take out their frustrations and anger on the child. Children with disabilities may be in a closed environment in their own homes, by adults they trust, again leaving them more vulnerable to abuse. Young, difficult child A child who is difficult to care for, such as a child that cries al lot or a child who won’t eat or sleep can lead to exhaustion and stress for parents and carers. This may lead to the parent or carer losing their temper taking their frustrations out on the child Substance/Alcohol Abuse by parents/carers This may be displayed by the adults caring for the child persistent failure to meet the child’s basic physical needs; it may include neglect of, or unresponsiveness to a child’s basic emotional needs. Physical signs may display: • A child being constantly hungry • Unkempt, dirty or smelly • Inappropriately dressed for weather conditions • Has untreated medical conditions As well as being aware of pre-disposing factors which could make a child more vulnerable to abuse. All practitioners should have regular training in safeguarding to ensure they are aware of and able to recognise the indicators of abuse. Physical Abuse • Physically hurts or injurers a child by hitting, shaking, squeezing, burning, biting or attempting to drown or suffocate them • Harms a child by giving the child alcohol, inappropriate drugs or poison • Fails to prevent physical injury or suffering e.g. not using a fire guard • Physical harm may also be caused when a parent or carer fabricates the symptoms of, or deliberately induces illness in a child Sexual Abuse • Enticing or forcing a child to engage in fondling, masturbation, oral or anal intercourse or full intercourse • Making a child observe inappropriate sexual behaviour • Showing a child pornographic books, videos/DVD’s or photographs or engaging them in inappropriate discussions about sexual matters Emotional Abuse • Persistently withholding love and affection, which are essential to a child’s natural emotional development • Constantly shouting at, threatening or demeaning the child • Persistently being overprotective to the extent that the child is not allowed to mix with others • Racial or other forms of harassment that undermine a child’s self-esteem and prevent the child developing a positive self-image Neglect • Any of the basic needs are not being met. This could include having an inadequate diet, being denied proper health care or being inadequately dressed. • Being left unsupervised in situations which represent possible dangers, whether at home or elsewhere