This guide will help you answer Unit 1.1 Explain own responsibility to safeguard children and young people who are present in an adult social care work setting of the RQF Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care.
As a lead practitioner in adult social care, safeguarding is your top priority. Although you primarily care for adults, children and young people may sometimes be present in your work setting. It is crucial to understand your role and responsibilities in ensuring their safety.
Understanding Safeguarding
What is Safeguarding?
Safeguarding means protecting children and young people from abuse, neglect, exploitation, and harm. This includes their health and development. The goal is to ensure that they grow up with safe, effective care.
Why is it Important?
Safeguarding is crucial to promoting the welfare and wellbeing of children and young people. Neglecting this responsibility can lead to serious consequences, both legal and ethical, for the organisation and yourself.
Legal Framework
Legislation and Policies
Familiarise yourself with the relevant UK legislation and policies, such as:
- The Children Act 1989 and 2004: These acts provide the legal framework for child protection in England.
- Working Together to Safeguard Children 2018: This sets out how organisations should work together to safeguard children.
- Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006: This act regulates the vetting and barring of individuals working with children.
Organisation’s Policies
Your organisation will have specific safeguarding policies and procedures. Ensure you know and understand these fully. Regularly review them and keep updated on any changes.
Own Responsibilities as a Lead Practitioner
Duty of Care
As a lead practitioner, you have a duty of care. This means you must always act in the best interests of children and young people. Their safety and wellbeing should be your priority.
Recognising and Responding to Abuse
Understanding Types of Abuse
You need to be able to recognise various forms of abuse, including:
- Physical Abuse: Hitting, shaking, or causing physical harm.
- Emotional Abuse: Verbal abuse, threats, or isolation.
- Sexual Abuse: Inappropriate touching or exposure to sexual activities.
- Neglect: Failing to meet basic needs like food, clothing, and medical care.
Signs of Abuse
Stay vigilant and look out for signs of abuse. These can be physical, such as bruises or injuries, or behavioural, such as anxiety, depression, or withdrawal.
Responding to Disclosures
If a child or young person discloses abuse to you, handle the situation with care:
- Listen carefully without interrupting.
- Reassure them that they did the right thing by telling you.
- Do not promise confidentiality; explain that you must inform others to keep them safe.
- Record the information accurately and report it according to your organisation’s procedures.
Reporting and Recording
Reporting
You must report any concerns or suspicions to the designated safeguarding lead in your organisation. Follow your organisation’s protocols for reporting. Ensure this is done promptly to avoid any delays in potential interventions.
Recording
Accurately record all information related to safeguarding concerns. This includes details of disclosures, observations, and actions taken. These records must be factual and clear. Never make assumptions or include personal opinions. Secure all records to maintain confidentiality.
Promoting a Safe Environment
Risk Assessments
Conduct regular risk assessments in the work setting. Identify potential hazards that could pose risks to children and young people. Take necessary actions to mitigate these risks.
Creating a Child-friendly Atmosphere
Ensure that your work setting is welcoming and safe for children and young people. This includes having child-friendly spaces and materials available. Be approachable and establish a trusting relationship with them. This encourages children to speak up if they feel unsafe.
Training and Continual Professional Development
Ongoing Training
Attend regular safeguarding training to keep your knowledge current. Training sessions will help you stay updated on new legislation, policies, and best practices.
Supporting Staff
As a lead practitioner, support your team by promoting awareness of safeguarding responsibilities. Encourage them to attend training and provide guidance when needed.
Collaboration with External Agencies
Working Together
Collaborate with external agencies such as social services, the police, and health professionals. Effective communication and information-sharing with these agencies are crucial for safeguarding children and young people.
Multi-agency Meetings
Participate in multi-agency meetings to discuss safeguarding concerns. Share relevant information to ensure a coordinated and effective response.
Maintaining Professional Boundaries
Appropriate Behaviour
Maintain professional boundaries with children and young people. Avoid situations where your actions could be misinterpreted. Always act in a manner that upholds the dignity and respect of those in your care.
Supervision and Support
Provide supervision and support to your team members. Ensure they adhere to safeguarding policies and maintain professional boundaries.
Example answers for unit 1.1 Explain own responsibility to safeguard children and young people who are present in an adult social care work setting
Example Answer 1: Duty of Care
As a lead practitioner, my primary responsibility is to maintain a high standard of safeguarding for everyone in our care setting, including children and young people. I must ensure that their safety and wellbeing take precedence in all interactions. This involves always acting in their best interests and advocating for their needs. This duty of care extends to identifying any potential risks and taking immediate action to mitigate them, creating an environment where children feel safe and supported at all times.
Example Answer 2: Recognising and Responding to Abuse
I am responsible for recognising the signs of abuse and understanding its different forms, such as physical, emotional, sexual abuse, and neglect. If I notice any symptoms of abuse—such as unexplained injuries, behavioural changes, or signs of neglect—it is imperative that I respond appropriately. I must listen to any child who discloses information about their wellbeing, offering them a safe space to speak without interruption or judgement. It is also crucial to reassure them and explain that I have to report their concerns to protect them.
Example Answer 3: Reporting and Recording
One of my core responsibilities is to report any safeguarding concerns immediately to our designated safeguarding lead. Following our organisation’s reporting protocols accurately ensures that the necessary actions can be taken without delay. Additionally, I must record all relevant information precisely and factually. These records must include the details of any disclosure, my observations, and the actions taken. All records should be stored securely to maintain confidentiality and comply with data protection laws.
Example Answer 4: Creating a Safe Environment
To promote a safe environment, I conduct regular risk assessments in our work setting to identify and mitigate potential hazards. I take proactive steps to make the environment welcoming and child-friendly. Establishing trust with children and young people is also crucial. By providing age-appropriate activities and resources, I help facilitate an atmosphere where children feel secure and valued, encouraging them to communicate openly about their wellbeing.
Example Answer 5: Training and Supporting Staff
I prioritise continual professional development by attending regular safeguarding training to keep my knowledge up-to-date. My role also involves supporting and guiding my team to ensure they fully understand their safeguarding responsibilities. Encouraging staff to attend training sessions and providing ongoing supervision helps maintain a high standard of care and vigilance throughout our organisation.
Example Answer 6: Collaborating with External Agencies
Effective safeguarding requires collaboration with external agencies such as social services, the police, and health professionals. I actively participate in multi-agency meetings and share relevant information to ensure a coordinated approach to protect children and young people. My role includes facilitating open communication channels with these agencies and ensuring that our efforts are aligned to provide a comprehensive safeguarding framework.
Summary
Safeguarding children and young people in an adult social care setting is a shared responsibility. As a lead practitioner, you must be vigilant, knowledgeable, and proactive in your approach. Your actions can make a significant difference in protecting vulnerable children and young people from harm. Stay informed, follow procedures, and encourage a culture of safety. Always act in the best interest of those in your care, and remember that safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.