Child abuse general guidance

If a child is at risk of coming to significant harm because of abuse or neglect they may be supported with a a child protection plan. 

This is decided at a child protection case conference. 

A child protection plan is a clear guide for families and professionals. It outlines their responsibilities and expectations. 

It aims to:

• ensure the child's safety
• promote the child's welfare
• support the family in providing safe care

The key elements of a child protection plan include:

• identifying sources of harm
• detailed long and short-term objectives
• defined roles and actions for the family and professionals
• daily safety and wellbeing checks for the child
• a contingency plan if the plan fails

If you're involved with a child who has a child protection plan you should:

• be familiar with the plan's requirements
• know the key worker involved in the case and report any concerns quickly
• follow the relevant policies and procedures
• attend all protection conferences and core group meetings and give updates on the child and family