Child Protection

What is child abuse?

Types of abuse

Am I under a duty to report child abuse?

Who should I report suspected abuse to?

Confidentiality when reporting children

What happens if abuse is reported to social services?

Alternative ways to report children at risk

Will Children's Services let me know what they decide to do?

What if Children's Services decide to do an initial assessment?

What if Children's Services investigate further?

What is a 'section 47' enquiry?

What happens once the investigation has been carried out?

Do I have to speak to Children's Services?

Do I have to let Children's Services speak to my child?

What if I refuse to let Children's Services speak to my child?

Do I have to agree to my child's medical examination?

What is a child protection case conference?

What is the purpose of a Child Protection Case Conference?

What is a child protection plan?

Who goes to a Child Protection Case Conference?

Can the child attend the Child Protection Case Conference?

What if I cannot attend the Child Protection Case Conference?

What if I have special needs or need help with communication?

Can a parent bring a friend or relative with them for support?

Can I be present during the whole case conference?

Can I see the minutes of the child protection case conference?

What if I am not happy with the outcome?

What is the child protection register?

Child's name on the child protection register

Can anyone gain access to the child protection register?

How long will a child's name stay on the child protection register?

Do Children's Services need a court order before taking my child?

What is an emergency protection order?

What is an Exclusion Order?

When are the police involved in a child abuse enquiry?

What is police protection?

What is an accommodated child?