When child abuse is suspected a social work team will be asked to make sure the child or young person is safe. They will find out about what is happening from those involved. An investigation will take place, which may include interviews and medical examinations. A strategy meeting will be arranged where everyone involved can share information and make plans for the future.
How will I know that the people who visit are who they say they are?
All social workers will carry identification cards. It is important to look at them carefully. If you are not sure that they are genuine, contact the duty and assessment team on 01925 443400 or the police on 652222.
What might be involved in investigations?
A social worker will never insist on a child being undressed, or try to examine a child themselves. If any such examination is thought necessary, parents will be asked to agree to the child having a medical examination and video interview, if it is necessary.
Sometimes if people threaten workers, or stop enquiries, the police may be asked to help because no one can walk away and leave a child in possible danger.
Who might be involved in investigations?
It would depend on the circumstances but might include teachers, health visitors, the police, etc.
Would the safeguarding service take the child away?
The aim of children and young people's services is to keep children with their families. Where this is not possible then alternative placements will first be sought with family members or friends and only as a last resort will children be placed away from their families. This would only be done if we feel a child is in real danger, or no better arrangements are possible.
Before this can be done an explanation of the circumstances is made to a magistrate or to a court and an application for a Legal Order is made. This would allow the child to be taken to a safe place without the parents' agreement whilst more information is gathered. The family would be asked to agree a plan and work with professionals to achieve the aims of the plan.
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