Police Probationer Training - Child Protection and GIRFEC PDF

OFFICIAL Unit 6 Lesson 8.1...

OFFICIAL Unit 6 Lesson 8.1 Child Protection and GIRFEC Lesson Aim: The learner will be able to outline police powers and procedures to protect and report children Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of the lesson, students will be able to:- 1. Explain the Getting it right for every Child Introduction (GIRFEC) values and principles. As a police officer, it is your responsibility to ensure that the public are kept safe. There 2. Explain section 12 of the Children and are many vulnerable people within our Young Persons (Scotland) Act 1937. community that may require assistance and require the police to be their “voice”. One of these vulnerable groups are children and 3. Identify warning signs in relation to child together with partnership organisations we abuse. have a responsibility to ensure that they are safe, cared for and are able to live a life free from fear. This responsibility is laid out in the United Nations Conventions of Right of the Child (UNCRC) and in July 2024 Scotland is the first UK country to incorporate these into domestic law to change the way children are protected from abuse and exploitation. On a daily basis you will have regular dealings with children and young people and you must be fully aware of your role and duty in respect to this. Child abuse is prevalent within our society, both overtly and as a hidden harm. As a police officer you may be the first person to identify these signs. Abuse is not just physical it can be mental/ emotional or neglect, therefore we have to be able to recognise the signs and know how to deal with it when reported. 1 st Amended 1 March 2024 v.3 OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 6 Lesson 8.1 Child Protection and GIRFEC REMEMBER - Safeguarding the child is paramount. It is better to do something and be wrong than do nothing and be proved right. It is sufficient that you identify a likelihood or risk of significant harm of abuse or neglect to take action. It is better to do something and be wrong than do nothing and be proved right. Wellbeing W At all times you should be aware of your own mental and physical wellbeing, as well as that of your colleagues. Talk to your supervisor or colleagues with any concerns you have. There are many support options available to you including TRiM counsellors and the Employee Assistance Programme. Please refer to Unit 5 lesson note on ‘Health and Wellbeing’ and information available on the Police Scotland intranet. Case Study CS Your instructor will guide you through a case study. Please study this and discuss afterwards. 2 Protection and Wellbeing in Our Communities OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 6 Lesson 8.1 Child Protection and GIRFEC GIRFEC (Getting It Right For Every Child) GIRFEC is the Scottish Governments approach to ensuring that all children and young people, including unborn babies have the right to be protected from harm and abuse and grow up in an environment which respects their rights and needs. The ‘Getting It Right For Every Child’ practice model is now legislated through the Children and Young People’s Act 2014. Through policy and the delivery of services at both national and local level, the GIRFEC approach:- is child-focused - it ensures the child or young person – and their family – is at the centre of decision-making and the support available to them is based on an understanding of the wellbeing of a child in their current situation - it takes into consideration the wider influences on a child or young person and their developmental needs when thinking about their wellbeing, so that the right support can be offered is based on tackling needs early - it aims to ensure needs are identified as early as possible to avoid bigger concerns or problems developing requires joined-up working - it is about children, young people, parents, and the services they need working together in a coordinated way to meet the specific needs and improve their wellbeing Children and young people may live with challenges, some may experience more complex issues, and some may have temporary difficulties. Sometimes they, and their families, will need support. No matter what their needs, children and young people should always know what support might be available to allow them to decide whether that help is right for them. The Getting It Right for Every Child approach places an obligation on ALL agencies to ensure that whoever provides that support puts the child or young person and their family at the centre. Partner agencies should work together to support families, where appropriate, take early action at the first signs of difficulty, rather than only getting involved when a situation has already reached crisis point. 3 Protection and Wellbeing in Our Communities OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 6 Lesson 8.1 Child Protection and GIRFEC Values and Principles The GIRFEC values and principles reflect legislation, standards and professional expertise:- Promoting the wellbeing of individual children and young people This is based on understanding how children and young people develop in their families and communities, and addressing their needs at the earliest possible time. Keeping children and young people safe Emotional and physical safety is fundamental and is wider than child protection Putting the child at the centre Children and young people should have their views listened to and they should be involved in decisions that affect them Taking a whole child approach Recognising that what is going on in one part of a child or young person's life can affect many other areas of his or her life Building on strengths and promoting resilience Using a child or young person's existing networks and support where possible Promoting opportunities and valuing diversity Children and young people should feel valued in all circumstances and practitioners should create opportunities to celebrate diversity Providing additional help that is appropriate, proportionate and timely Providing help as early as possible and considering short and long-term needs Supporting informed choice Supporting children, young people and families in understanding what help is possible and what their choices may be Working in partnership with families Supporting, wherever possible, those who know the child or young person well, know what they need, what works well for them and what might be less helpful Respecting confidentiality and sharing information Only share information that is relevant and proportionate while safeguarding children and respecting young people's 4 Protection and Wellbeing in Our Communities OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 6 Lesson 8.1 Child Protection and GIRFEC right to confidentiality. Remember – what information you share may vary depending on the agency. Promoting the same values across all working relationships Recognising respect, patience, honesty, reliability, resilience and integrity are qualities valued by children, young people, their families and colleagues Making the most of bringing together each worker's expertise Respecting the contribution of others and co-operating with them, recognising that sharing responsibility does not mean acting beyond a worker's competence or responsibilities Co-ordinating help Recognising that children, young people and their families need practitioners to work together, when appropriate, to provide the best possible help Building a competent workforce to promote children and young people's wellbeing Committed to continuing individual learning and development and improvement of inter-professional practice 5 Protection and Wellbeing in Our Communities OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 6 Lesson 8.1 Child Protection and GIRFEC Wellbeing Indicators (SHANARRI) The wellbeing of children and young people is at the heart of GIRFEC. GIRFEC uses 8 areas of wellbeing in which children and young people need to progress in order to do well now and in the future. The 8 indicators of wellbeing are; 1 Safe 5 Active Protected from abuse, Opportunities to take neglect or harm part in a wide range of activities 2 Healthy 6 Respected High standards of Given a voice, and physical & mental involved in the health; support to decisions that affect make healthy, safe their well being choices 3 Achieving 7 Responsible Support and guidance Taking an active role in learning, boosting within their schools skills, confidence & and communities self esteem 4 Nurtured 8 Included Having a nurturing and Getting help and stimulating place to guidance to overcome live and grow inequalities; full members of the communities in which they live and learn 6 Protection and Wellbeing in Our Communities OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 6 Lesson 8.1 Child Protection and GIRFEC The wellbeing indicators are significant in the operational policing environment. When dealing with children you should look for signs that wellbeing indicators are not being met. These indicators will become more familiar to you through your use of the Vulnerable Person Database and have been agreed as a common language across all agencies so that each agency will know what you mean when you discuss or share concerns. Some indicators are more relevant and obvious during police contact than others – for example – safe, healthy or nurtured. You can find guidance within the iVPD system which you will discover when you experience the practical element of VPD in your training. Welfare of the child will always be PARAMOUNT. 7 Protection and Wellbeing in Our Communities OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 6 Lesson 8.1 Child Protection and GIRFEC Activity 1 A1 In your groups consider what agencies/ organisations that you think that police will work alongside in dealing with children and young people. Definition of a “Child” The Scottish Governments National Child Protection Guidance states that A child is now defined as any person under the age of 18 years old and this includes unborn babies. And you have an obligation to consider child protection process up to the age of 18 years old. Note:- Remember age is defined differently across other legislation. 8 Protection and Wellbeing in Our Communities OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 6 Lesson 8.1 Child Protection and GIRFEC Parental Responsibilities Before looking at child protection legislation, it is necessary to understand who has parental responsibility for a child. It is acknowledged that families are made up in different ways. The law however is specific in relation to sex. All mothers automatically have parental responsibilities to safeguard and promote the child’s health, development and welfare, providing direction and guidance, acting as the child’s legal representative and the right to have the child living with them up to the age of 16. These rights can only be taken away with a court order. A father has these rights and responsibilities if:- He was married to the mother at conception or thereafter He is not married to the mother, but is recorded as the father on the birth certificate He has been given them by a court order or He has agreed rights and responsibilities with the mother and registered them through a legal process as defined by Section 4(1)(2) Children (Scotland) Act 1995. See Appendix A for guidance. Additionally, under section 4A of the Children (Scotland) Act 1995 there is provision for acquisition of parental responsibilities and parental rights by second female parent by agreement with mother. As a police officer you would not intervene to remove children from one parent at the request of another unless the children were at obvious and immediate risk of harm. Note:- A mother or father without parental rights who removes a child (under 16 years) may commit an offence under this legislation. In cases which do not involve the biological parent and formal adoption is used, whether single parent, same sex etc. then parental rights and responsibilities are acquired through adoption and formal surrogacy arrangements. There have been changes in the law to make sure that parents who are separating or divorcing are both involved in bringing up their child and continue to share their responsibilities towards the child. Again, this is to make sure that both parents meet all of the child's needs. This means:- 9 Protection and Wellbeing in Our Communities OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 6 Lesson 8.1 Child Protection and GIRFEC Both parents continue to have responsibilities and rights towards the child. Both parents can agree who the child lives with and who has contact with the child. If a court is not satisfied with the arrangements or parents cannot agree, the court can decide who the child lives with and who the child has contact with. A court can also decide to give parental responsibilities and rights to another adult and to make "specific issue" orders to help the child, for example, Residence and Contact Orders. Legislation Section 12, Children and Young Persons (Scotland) Act 1937 creates an offence for: any person aged 16 years and over who has the parental responsibilities for the charge or care of a child or young person under 16 years, and; Wilfully ill-treats, neglects, abandons or exposes him/her in a manner likely to cause unnecessary suffering or injury to health (including mental health). Let’s break this legislation down: Charge - A person is deemed to have charge of a child or young person if they have been delegated that responsibility by the person who has parental rights e.g. babysitter. Care - A person is deemed to have care of a child if they have actual possession or control of that child or young person (for example, a police officer with a lost child). Wilfully - In respect to the word wilfully, the actions of the accused must be deliberate and intentional. The deliberate actions of the accused person do not need to cause actual harm to the child. The intention is what matters. Note:- The legislation states:- “in a manner likely to cause…..” The child does not have to be actually harmed, but there must be likelihood that suffering or injury was possible due to the child having been subjected to certain actions or behaviour of the accused. For example:- If a young child was left in a house with knives and other sharp objects left within their reach then there is a likelihood that they could obtain the knives and cause themselves injury. 10 Protection and Wellbeing in Our Communities OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 6 Lesson 8.1 Child Protection and GIRFEC It is the responsibility of the prosecution to prove the child or young person is under 16 years of age. When reporting a Section 12, Children and Young Persons (Scotland) Act 1937 offence it is advisable to seize the birth certificate (or extract of) of the child or young person and lodge it as a production. This would then be sufficient proof of the child’s age in any proceedings. Feedback 1 F1 Midwives - look after pregnant women and new born babies ( always ensure that you submit an iVPD in cases involving pregnant women or new mothers/babies so that the health professionals are aware to make provisions for when the child is born) Health Visitors - look after children from birth until 3 years School Nurses - look after school age children Paediatricians - specialist doctors who look after children until 16 General practitioners - Pre-birth through life Agencies: Health Local Authorities Education Social Work department Children’s Reporter Children’s Hearing System Voluntary organisations 11 Protection and Wellbeing in Our Communities OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 6 Lesson 8.1 Child Protection and GIRFEC Activity 2 A2 You attend at a house to note a statement in relation to a missing person. However on attending you have concerns in relation to children within the household. How would you proceed, considerations, paperwork etc. (Feedback is contained within the Police Action section) Police Action Child protection concerns can come from anywhere. Most commonly they will come from teachers, social workers, doctors, medical staff, youth leaders, neighbours or friends and family. In any case all concerns must be dealt with comprehensively and with impartiality. Local policing officers are usually required to provide the initial response and note initial details before consideration is given to passing an enquiry to the PPU who have received additional training. Be mindful that there may be occasions when concerns and/or risks to children are not easily identifiable. When you initially arrive at a house or other place and determine that a possible offence under this act has occurred or where other child protection concerns exist, there are a number of points which you must note and other action that has to be taken. 12 Protection and Wellbeing in Our Communities OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 6 Lesson 8.1 Child Protection and GIRFEC In almost any situation you should consider the following:- Welfare of the child is paramount. Ensure the safety of the child/children in the house immediately. If it is not safe to leave the child/children remain with them until a family member/friend or social work attend. Ensure all relevant Police system and Social work system checks have been completed prior to leaving them in anyone’s care. Make sure you see the child – do not be put off or persuaded by anyone telling you that the child is ok or can’t be seen due to being asleep, too upset or scared of police, or that the child is elsewhere (at grans etc). How can you speak to the wellbeing of a child if you have not seen them? In the case of injury, the child should receive immediate medical attention, whether locally or at a hospital. An initial account may be required from a medical professional. In some cases the account of circumstances provided will not be consistent with the injuries sustained. Evidence at this stage is an important factor, so consider, is this a crime scene? Think about forensic recovery/photographs of injuries. Note the circumstances of how you were informed of the incident and gather relevant statements. There are many ways you could come across such an incident. Directed by your control room, tasked by your Sergeant, through enquiries relating to another incident. Remember if you have any concerns ask relevant questions and act accordingly. Contact your supervisor who will alert Criminal Investigation Department (CID) or Public Protection Unit (PPU) or other specialist officers. The local Social Work Department should be contacted in every instance and may attend. A check of iVPD should indicate if the child is on the Child Protection register, or if they have been within the last 6 months. Record all contact with social work in your notebook/mobile device and also on the VPD form. Note the conditions and attitudes of all those present, both adults and children. Are the adults under the influence of drink/drugs? Are they aggressive, passive, helpful or obstructive? Are the children dressed, clean, do they appear nourished, happy/upset? What are the living conditions in the house? Is it clean, tidy or filthy? Is there food in the house, unsanitary conditions, what pets are present? 13 Protection and Wellbeing in Our Communities OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 6 Lesson 8.1 Child Protection and GIRFEC The suspect may give a different account of what actually happened and it may be necessary to ask a child questions. If interviewing the child, the age and developmental stage of the child must be taken into account. If, after consideration has been given to welfare, you decide it is appropriate to ask the child questions, you can ask the child limited, non-suggestive questions to allow the officer to make an assessment, for example, ‘are you hurt?’, ‘what did you see/hear’. Note any responses verbatim in your notebook. If it is not appropriate to ask the child questions due to age, how upset they are – record that too. Where a more in depth interview is required, specially trained officer should carry out the interview of the child, your supervisor and specialist Child protection departments have procedures in place for this. 14 Protection and Wellbeing in Our Communities OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 6 Lesson 8.1 Child Protection and GIRFEC Activity 3 A3 Child abuse can occur in a manner of ways. In your groups discuss and note ways in which the following may take place. Physical Abuse Emotional Abuse Sexual Abuse Neglect 15 Protection and Wellbeing in Our Communities OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 6 Lesson 8.1 Child Protection and GIRFEC Feedback 3 F3 Physical Abuse the causing of physical harm to a child or young person and may involve hitting, shaking, throwing, poisoning, burning or scalding, drowning or suffocating. Emotional Abuse the persistent emotional neglect or ill-treatment that has severe adverse effects on the child’s emotional development. It may involve conveying to a child that they are worthless, unloved and inadequate or be the encouragement of self-harm. Sexual Abuse any act that involves the child in any activity for the sexual gratification of another person, whether or not it is claimed that the child either consented or assented or is aware of what is happening. It may include non-contact activities such as involving children in looking at, or in the production of indecent images or in watching sexual activities. Neglect a form of maltreatment of a child and can be constituted by the persistent failure to meet a child’s basic physical and/or psychological needs which is likely to result in the serious impairment of the child’s health or development. It can involve failing to provide adequate food, shelter and clothing or failing to attend medical appointments. 16 Protection and Wellbeing in Our Communities OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 6 Lesson 8.1 Child Protection and GIRFEC Spotting Signs of Abuse Some of these may not be easy or obvious to see, but by being vigilant and detecting any signs, you may be preventing a child or young person suffering further. Every week a child either dies or is one of thousands who are deliberately injured or neglected in this country. Child abuse remains difficult to prevent and detect, this can be due to difficulty in judging accurately what goes on in the home. Also, intervention in the relationship between parents and children can be a highly delicate matter. Hidden Harm can refer to types of abusive behaviour that are often hidden from public view, such as domestic abuse, neglect, sexual abuse or self-harm. Below are some of the signs which may indicate that all is not well:- Parental Reactions Reluctance to discuss child’s injuries Inconsistencies in explanation Hostility towards an agency Disguised Compliance (playing along) Uncooperative with home visits/professionals Stress related issues Child Reactions Undue fear of adults Irritability Finger grip bruising Disproportionate or repetitive bruising Unexplained fractures Bites, circular burns Unusual bruise marks (especially on or around ears) or welts Healed injuries, revealed from scars or x-rays These lists could be endless but trust your “gut feeling” and “do something”. If something feels wrong and you have suspicions, seek advice, and assistance and share your concerns in the relevant way (e.g. iVPD). Remember and note down as much information in your notebook as possible. 17 Protection and Wellbeing in Our Communities OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 6 Lesson 8.1 Child Protection and GIRFEC REMEMBER - It is better to do something and be wrong than do nothing and be proved right. Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) As described in your Missing Persons lesson note, CSE is a form of child abuse, although not exhaustive the following are signs of CSE changes in temperament or suffering from depression, mood swings or changes in emotional wellbeing. secretive behaviour. peers and friends – association with other young people involved in exploitation and having older boyfriends/girlfriends. getting involved in petty crime such as shoplifting or stealing. having money or things you wouldn’t expect. children or young people who become estranged from their family. sudden hostility towards family members. becoming physically aggressive towards family and friends. going missing for periods of time or regularly returning home late. involvement in exploitative relationships or association with risky adults. young people being found in towns or districts where they have no known connection. children or young people seen entering or leaving vehicles driven by unknown adults. becoming detached from age-related activities and social groups. being sexually active. receiving phone calls and/or text messages from unknown adults. evidence of drug, alcohol and/or substance use – abusers may use drugs and alcohol to help control children and young people. unexplained physical injuries or suffering from physical injuries (e.g. bruising suggestive of either physical or sexual assault) Punishment of a Child Children (Equal Protection from Assault) (Scotland) Act 2019 was created to protect children from physical punishment by a parent or person with charge or care of them (they will be referred to as a parent/carer). Many people will have their own personal experiences of “smacking” however what was previously considered to be “reasonable chastisement” has now been outlawed. 18 Protection and Wellbeing in Our Communities OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 6 Lesson 8.1 Child Protection and GIRFEC Following the introduction of this legislation, these incidents are now considered to be common law assault with a child aggravation. Where the assault is of a very minor nature and there are no other Child Protection concerns, officers can dispose of an Equal Protection incident by means of a Recorded Police Warning (RPW). This process should be considered for minor assaults on a child, by a parent, or person in charge or care of the child where:- there are no obvious risk or safety concerns in relation to children; initial checks have been carried out at the locus; identities have been confirmed and there are no other concerns, and; where appropriate, the parent/guardian of the child has been notified of the incident The parent/carer and child will be allowed to leave the locus. Officers will thereafter continue with a full investigation, in slow time. Officers will be required to submit a crime report on each occasion along with a child concern report on iVPD. Equal Protection incidents can happen anywhere, both in public and private places. Emergency Powers Until suspicions of abuse or neglect can be clarified, a child’s parents or carers may agree to local authority social work providing the child with accommodation. Police and social work may also consider that extended family or friends could look after the child pending investigation or further enquiry. This would require sufficient checks to be made in respect of those taking care of the child. In some cases urgent action may be required to protect a child from likely or actual significant harm. Consideration may be given to invoking statutory powers under the Children’s Hearing (Scotland) Act 2011 to apply to a Sheriff for a Child Protection Order (CPO). However, where a child requires to be removed immediately for protection the Police have the following power; 19 Protection and Wellbeing in Our Communities OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 6 Lesson 8.1 Child Protection and GIRFEC Section 56 of the Children’s Hearing (Scotland) Act 2011 provides that a constable: may remove a child to a place of safety and keep the child there if; the constable is satisfied that the child is being neglected or treated in such a way that they are likely to suffer significant harm; and removal is necessary to protect the child from harm; and it is not practicable in the circumstances for an application for a child protection order to be made to or considered by the sheriff. The child may be kept in a place of safety under this section for period of no more than 24 hours during which, typically, further protective measures will be sought. A place of safety could be a social work office, hospital or other place agreed with social work. As a last resort a police office could be used. As soon as practicable after the removal of a child the constable must inform the Principal Reporter, Scottish Children’s Reporter Administration who can start their own process to implement measures of care to protect the child while an investigation is ongoing. Note:- The role of the Reporter will be covered in the Youth Offending and Grounds for Statutory Referral Lesson. Police may attend an incident where this power may need to be exercised, alternatively we may be called upon by our partners in social work to employ this emergency power on their behalf. This action should only be carried out after careful consideration of other options and with full consultation with a supervisory officer. Initial Child Protection Planning Meeting and Child Protection Register Where a child is identified at being at risk of significant harm social work will convene an initial Child Protection Planning Meeting (CPPM). This will take place within 21 days of the original concern or referral being raised to police or social work. Those who may attend can include anyone with any involvement with the child or any other relevant organisation which has information relevant to the matters being discussed, e.g. Educational Psychologist, Housing Worker or worker form a voluntary organisation. 20 Protection and Wellbeing in Our Communities OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 6 Lesson 8.1 Child Protection and GIRFEC The purpose of the case conference is to decide jointly if a child has suffered or is likely to suffer significant harm and if so their name should be added to the child protection register. The register is essentially a confidential list held by the local authority (in this case Social Work) of all the children who are at risk of significant harm. Where it is decided that the child is at risk, the child’s name will be added and a Child Protection Plan created. The child will be allocated a social worker if one is not in place already and an agreed plan to visit/monitor the child at home put into place. Note:- An unborn baby may also be placed on the register at any stage of the pregnancy. You may, as an operational uniformed constable, be called upon to attend a case conference. If so, you will share information held by police in respect of the child, family and any other relevant information. This report should be prepared by specialists officers in advance. You should listen to all information being shared and must be prepared to make a decision as to whether inclusion on the register is necessary. The lead Social Worker will have the Protection register criteria and categories to help you make a decision. Trust your instinct. Local Authority Partnership Services Joint working allows key agencies (Social work/health/education) to work together to investigate circumstances surrounding reports of child abuse and neglect. This does not mean that the whole investigation is carried out jointly. It does, however, mean a coordinated approach, with close liaison between agencies at each stage of the investigation (prior to, during and at conclusion). The IRD process (Interagency-Referal Discussion) is where this happens – usually within the Child Protection department. Social workers and teachers are employed by Local Authorities and Health professionals by NHS for the local area. They have varied responsibilities but in relation to children and young people they all hold an equal responsibility and are trained to protect children in need, investigating and responding to child welfare concerns and protecting children and young people. When we discuss alerting the local authority in relation to child protection concerns, we are referring to the social work department within the local authority where the child for whom we have concern resides. 21 Protection and Wellbeing in Our Communities OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 6 Lesson 8.1 Child Protection and GIRFEC An out-of-hours service will be available in each division. This is often referred to as ‘out-of-hours’ social work or the ‘duty team’. Once at division make sure you know how to contact them and store the phone number in your mobile device. Out of hours services are very limited compared to office hours, with only one or two workers covering a large area. Out of hours social workers may not be able to attend incidents in the same way, but should still be part of any decision making about what’s best for the child. Voluntary organisations exist to provide services and support to the statutory organisations as well as to children and young people and their families. Familiarise yourself with those in your area, so you can signpost when necessary. iVPD Flagging A Child Protection Flagging system is in place on the iVPD system. The purpose of this is to make officers aware of an already know heightened risk to a child within the household you are attending. Even if the call is not about child protection, this flag should ensure that you look for signs of harm, hidden harm or any other issue that you may need to bring to the attention of partner services. This will alert police officers that there have been sufficient previous, or current, professional concerns about a child (including unborn babies) to warrant their addition to the Child Protection Register. All users of iVPD will be able to search the child’s name on the database. A coloured flag will demonstrate the status on the local authority register. There are three different flags:- Red Flag – indicates a child or young person is currently on the register Blue Flag – indicates a child or young person has been de- registered (this will be displayed for 6 months following de- registration) Amber Flag – placed against the name of mother of an unborn child where a decision has been made to place their name on the register. There will continue to be an obligation on Police to contact the local authority when dealing with a child who is on, or has been recently removed from, the child protection register. 22 Protection and Wellbeing in Our Communities OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 6 Lesson 8.1 Child Protection and GIRFEC Information Sharing As Police Officers, we can often be concerned about sharing information about individuals in case we breach data protection guidelines and that concern is well founded. However, in terms of child protection responsibilities, Police Officers and other professionals have a duty of care towards children which, in general, overrides an individual’s right to confidentiality. Disclosure of information which may normally be in breach of the right to privacy afforded under the Human Rights Act 1988, can be justified for child protection purposes, provided the sharing of information is justified, necessary and proportionate. It is recommended that any information shared is recorded by you, should you be asked to recall this information at a later date. Professionals have a responsibility to share information promptly in order to ensure a child’s wellbeing. If there is reasonable concern that a child may be at risk of harm, then this will always override any professional or agency requirement to keep information confidential. Police like other professionals are required to share all relevant information in their possession relevant to the child protection investigation – This includes previous convictions and intelligence. Note:- If in doubt, seek advice from your supervisor or Public Protection Unit. Appendix A 23 Protection and Wellbeing in Our Communities OFFICIAL  OFFICIAL Unit 6 Lesson 8.1 Child Protection and GIRFEC For further information, use the resources shown below:- Child Protection PSoS SOP Review: You can explain the getting it right for every child (GIRFEC) values and principles You can explain section 12 of the Children and Young Persons (Scotland) Act 1937 You can identify warning signs in relation to child abuse Learning Log: How will what you have learned in this module impact your day-to- day role? Are there any skills or knowledge you would like to develop further following this module? End of Module 24 Protection and Wellbeing in Our Communities OFFICIAL