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Child Protection Investigation
Definition A Child Protection Investigation is an assessment which focuses not only on the needs of the child but also their safety.
Process
If a child or young person makes an allegation which requires investigation and this event took place in Guernsey then the Guernsey and Alderney Child Protection Guidelines will be followed. If the event took place outside of Guernsey then the guidelines for that local authority will be followed.
It is important that, as the authority responsible for the child, Guernsey ensures that the Local Authority required to undertake the investigation is notified. This will include direct telephone or email contact with that Local Authority who is responsible for this.
Involvement
- The Team Manager will make a decision on whether it is necessary and appropriate for the child's Social Worker or a representative from the Department participates in the strategy discussion either by attendance or through conference calls.
- Guernsey should receive a written account of the investigation process including outcomes.
- If further resources are needed immediately to ensure the safety and well being of the child then the matter must immediately be referred to an appropriate manager who can make decisions on this issue.
Actions
Task | Responsible Officer | Record | Timescale |
On receipt of allegation establish where and when | Social Worker | Computer | At time of referral |
Guernsey | |||
If allegation refers to an incident or event in Guernsey then the Guernsey and Alderney Child Protection Guidelines apply | Social Worker Team Manager | Computer | Within 1 Working Day |
Strategy Meeting to be convened in Guernsey
| Team Manager (Looked After Child Team) Team Manager (Assessment & Intervention Team) | Computer | Within 1 working day if there is immediate concern for child/children's safety |
Out of Jurisdiction | |||
Liaise with relevant Child Protection Agency in the UK | Social Worker Team Manager | Computer | Within 1 working day |
Follow up telephone call if no definitive response | Social Worker Team Manager | Computer | Within 2 working days |
Agree with Investigations Officer information required from Guernsey and ensure this is made available for Strategy Meeting | Social Worker | Computer | At time of referral being accepted |
Decision made about what role Guernsey plays in Strategy discussions | Social Worker Team Manager | Computer | After acceptance of referral |
Agree how outcome of investigation will be fed back to child, family and Guernsey | Social Worker | Computer | At / or following Strategy Discussion |
Ensure communication occurs throughout process | Social Worker | Computer | Ongoing |
Make representation to Local Authority if issues arise around non acceptance of referral or progression of investigation | Senior Practitioner/ Team Manager/ Service Manger | Computer | At time of issue being raised |
Discussion if required with Local Authority or placement provider if additional resources are needed to ensure the child is safe | Social Worker/Team Manager | Computer | As investigation progresses |
Referral to DMT and Services Contracts Manager if further resources are required | Social Worker/Team Manager | Computer | At earliest available opportunity |
To ensure written account of investigation is made available to Guernsey | Social Worker | Computer | On conclusion of investigation |
To confirm who notifies child and family on conclusion of investigation | Social Worker | Computer | On conclusion of investigation |