Child protection : procedures for schools [national policy]

Abstract

Child abuse is one of the most demanding and complex tasks facing human service professionals today. The reality of this phenomenon is so evident that action is necessitated. In September, 1996, the Education Division decided that a policy on child protection for schools should be formulated. A first draft of the Child Protection Procedures by Ms. Micheline Sciberras, Dip. Y.S., B.Ed. (Hons), M.A. (Durham) proposed clear referral procedures to all teaching and nonteaching employees of all educational establishments. An Action Team was set up in February, 1999, with the mandate of extending further the consultation process, collating feedback and presenting the final version of the procedures for adoption by all educational establishments. The Action Team was also asked to propose an action plan for implementation. A final draft was drawn up after a consultation process was carried out with various professionals from the education, social welfare, health, legal, trade union and judicial fields. The Child Protection Procedures presented here are the result of inter-agency multidisciplinary networking. This document contains four parts. The first part is an introduction to the document and gives an exposition of the principles and obligations assumed by the Education Division. The second part contains essential background information. The third part sets out procedures and guidelines that should be followed by all employees. Whilst the final part gives additional information regarding salient issues. It is intended that this document is revised on a regular basis. Annual evaluation of policy operation and services rendered is suggested. It is vital to provide effective professional services that address the needs of the suffering child. [excerpt]