RESPONDING TO CONCERNS

Why it is important to respond to concerns?

 It takes considerable courage for a child or adult to disclose abuse.  Disclosures need to be handled very carefully and sensitively to avoid causing further distress to the child.  All concerns must be responded to in a way that ensures that a child receives appropriate help and support and to ensure that appropriate action is taken against those who pose a risk to children and to protect not only the child involved but all other children.

 Robust procedures for responding to concerns will:

• help to avoid those receiving information from engaging in judgements.
  
• reassure those who report concerns that an appropriate course of action will ensue.
  
• support those charged with managing concerns by providing them with a step-by-step process to follow.
  
• safeguard the rights of those against whom complaints or allegations have been made.
  

Please refer to the guidance document available on the Child Protection Policy and Guidelines page

It is not the job of anyone in the Scottish Canoe Association to decide whether or not a child has neen abused.  It is however, everyone's responsibility to report concerns.