Safeguarding Children

Under the 1989 and the 2004 Children Acts, a child or young person is anyone under the age of 18 years.

Safeguarding Children refers to the activity that is undertaken to protect specific children who are suffering or at risk of suffering significant harm. All agencies and individuals should be proactive in safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

The practice recognises that all children have a right to protection from abuse and the practice accepts its responsibility to protect and safeguard the welfare of children with whom staff may come into contact.

We intend to:

• Respond quickly and appropriately where abuse is suspected or allegations are made.
• Provide both parents and children with the chance to raise concerns over their own care or the care of others.
• Have a system for dealing with, escalating and reviewing concerns.
• Remain aware of child protection procedures and maintain links with other bodies, especially the primary care trust appointed contacts.
• The practice will ensure that all staff are trained to a level appropriate to their role, and that this is repeated on an annual refresher basis. New starters will receive training within 6 months of start date.