National guidance for child protection in Scotland - Scottish ...

Introduction and Purpose of Guidance
Professionalism, Commitment, Courage
This guidance is supplementary to, and should be read in conjunction with, the
Scottish Government National Guidance for Child Protection in Scotland 2010
“the National Guidance”.¹ The National Guidance outlines key definitions and
concepts, specifically a definition of what constitutes child abuse and neglect and
harm/significant harm (Appendix 1). In addition, there is a series of appendices
which are important and explore in more detail specific child protection scenarios.
This guidance:
Is intended to act as a practical reference point for all healthcare staff
working within an adult and child service context.
Includes children and young people up to the age of 18. Further
information on the relevant legislation relating to the definition of a child,
particularly for those aged between 16-18 is outlined in Appendix 1.
Highlights the specific roles and responsibilities of specialist staff working
in particular settings wherever children and young people will usually be
seen.
Sets out the framework to aid practitioners in their role in dealing with child
protection concerns.
Articles of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child are ratified by the UK
Government and endorsed by the Scottish Government. They should underpin all
code and practice in child protection. In addition to the Convention, the Children’s
Charter was drawn up following consultation with children and young people as
part of the Scottish Government’s child protection reform programme. The
Framework for Standards² is the detailed means for translating the commitments
made in the Children’s Charter into practice. Further information is available at
the “Principles and Standards for Child Protection” section contained in Part 1 of
the National Guidance.
All children and young people have a right to be protected. As health is a
universal provider for children and young people and their families’ and many will
only ever access universal services’ it is important for all healthcare staff to
understand their responsibilities when treating and managing children and young
people or their parents and carers.
Young people aged between 16 and 18 are potentially vulnerable to falling
“between the gaps” and local services must ensure that processes are in place to
enable staff to offer ongoing support and protection as needed, via continuous
single planning for the young person.
Getting it right for every child³ is a consistent way for people to work with all
children and young people to improve their wellbeing. The GIRFEC approach
helps practitioners focus on what makes a positive difference for children and
young people – and how they can act to deliver these improvements. GIRFEC is
being threaded through all existing policy, practice, strategy and legislation
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