Discerns fact from opinion Compliant with legislation Thorough and relevant Contains up to date details Professionals should be confident that if the service user/provider were to view the record, it would be (a) evidence based (b) written in a professional and respectful manner (c) compliant with relevant legislation. This does not mean that alleged victims or suspects should be questioned in any detail. This record is an account of what was observed, disclosed or witnessed at the time and not an investigation. Investigation is the responsibility of the safeguarding professionals. The notes must be kept safe as it may be necessary to make records available as evidence and to disclose them in court. 10.7 Allegations Responding to disclosures You should follow the following guidelines when responding to a child or young person who is making a disclosure: Assure them that you are taking them seriously • Listen carefully to what they are telling you, stay calm, get as clear a picture • as you can, but avoid asking too many questions at this stage Do not give promises of complete confidentiality • Explain that you have a duty to tell your manager or other designated person, • and that their concerns may be shared with others who could have a part to play in protecting them Reassure them that they will be involved in decisions about what will • happen Explain that you will try to take steps to protect them from further abuse or • neglect If they have specific communication provide support and information in • a way that is most appropriate to them Do not be judgemental or jump to conclusions •
Discerns fact from opinion Compliant with legislation Thorough and relevant Contains up to date details Professionals should be confident that if the service user/provider were to view the record, it would be (a) evidence based (b) written in a professional and respectful manner (c) compliant with relevant legislation. This does not mean that alleged victims or suspects should be questioned in any detail. This record is an account of what was observed, disclosed or witnessed at the time and not an investigation. Investigation is the responsibility of the safeguarding professionals. The notes must be kept safe as it may be necessary to make records available as evidence and to disclose them in court. 10.7 Allegations Responding to disclosures You should follow the following guidelines when responding to a child or young person who is making a disclosure: • Assure them that you are taking them seriously • Listen carefully to what they are telling you, stay calm, get as clear a picture as you can, but avoid asking too many questions at this stage • Do not give promises of complete confidentiality • Explain that you have a duty to tell your manager or other designated person, and that their concerns may be shared with others who could have a part to play in protecting them • Reassure them that they will be involved in decisions about what will happen • Explain that you will try to take steps to protect them from further abuse or neglect • If they have specific communication provide support and information in a way that is most appropriate to them • Do not be judgemental or jump to conclusions
TDS%20template%20policy%20%20guidance%20-%20April%202018%20-%20children.docx