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HSC 2003/007 - What To Do If You're Worried A Child Is Being Abused

This circular draws attention to the booklet What To Do If You're Worried A Child Is Being Abused. The booklet has been published following the Victoria Climbie Inquiry Report which, amongst other matters, expressed concern that the profusion of guidance makes it unclear what is expected of front line staff. The booklet has been developed to assist practitioners to comply with Government guidance on safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, the Framework for the Assessment of Children in Need and their Families (2000) and Working Together to Safeguard Children (1999). It also contains an appendix to help practitioners deal with the legal issues affecting exchange of information. It is prepared and issued jointly by the Department of Health, the Home Office, the Department for Education and Skills, the Lord Chancellor's Department, the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. The booklet is directed primarily towards children's services social workers, police, paediatricians, senior nurses and designated or named professionals in health, LEAs, schools and criminal justice institutions.

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