44. Child Protection and Safeguarding Procedures in Detached Youth Work: A Priority

Detached youth work plays a crucial role in supporting young people, but it also comes with unique challenges and responsibilities, especially when it comes to child protection and safeguarding. Protecting young people from harm and ensuring their well-being is paramount, and detached youth workers must be equipped with the knowledge and tools to do so effectively.

Understanding Child Protection and Safeguarding

• Child Protection: This refers to the measures taken to protect specific children who are suffering or at risk of significant harm. It involves responding to concerns about abuse or neglect and working with relevant agencies to ensure the child’s safety.
• Safeguarding: This encompasses a broader range of activities aimed at promoting the welfare of all children and young people. It includes creating safe environments, preventing harm, and promoting positive development.

Key Safeguarding Principles in Detached Youth Work

1. Prioritising the Child’s Welfare: The best interests of the child should be the primary concern in all decisions and actions.
2. Empowerment: Young people should be empowered to understand their rights, make informed choices, and participate in decisions that affect them.
3. Prevention: Proactive measures should be taken to identify and address potential risks to young people’s safety and well-being.
4. Partnership: Working collaboratively with other agencies, such as schools, social services, and the police, is essential for effective safeguarding.
5. Confidentiality: Respecting young people’s privacy and confidentiality is crucial, but it’s important to understand the limits of confidentiality when there are concerns about safety or harm.

Safeguarding Procedures in Detached Youth Work

• Policy and Procedures: Organisations should have clear, comprehensive safeguarding policies and procedures in place. These should outline the steps to take if there are concerns about a young person’s safety, who to report to, and how to record and manage disclosures.
• Training and Supervision: All detached youth workers should receive regular training on safeguarding and child protection. They should also receive ongoing supervision and support to help them identify and respond to any concerns.
• Risk Assessments: Conduct thorough risk assessments before engaging in any activity or outing with young people. This includes identifying potential hazards, implementing safety measures, and having contingency plans in place.
• Reporting Concerns: Any concerns about a young person’s safety or well-being should be reported promptly to the designated safeguarding lead within the organisation. In cases of immediate danger, the police or social services should be contacted.
• Record Keeping: Maintain accurate and confidential records of any concerns or disclosures. These records can be crucial for future investigations or safeguarding actions.

Additional Tips for Detached Youth Workers

• Build Trust: Establishing trust with young people is essential for them to feel comfortable disclosing any concerns or problems.
• Be Observant: Pay attention to any changes in behaviour, appearance, or mood that could indicate a young person is struggling or at risk.
• Listen Carefully: Take young people’s concerns seriously and listen to what they have to say without judgment.
• Know Your Limits: If a situation is beyond your expertise, seek advice and support from your supervisor or other professionals.

By prioritising child protection and safeguarding, detached youth workers can create a safe and supportive environment where young people can thrive and reach their full potential. Remember, protecting children is everyone’s responsibility.