Child Protection Policy

Section 5 - CNF Child Protection Policy - Guidelines

1. At CNF, anyone who will work with children and young people will be a member of CNF.

2. Members, Committee members, Sub Committee Members, and all volunteers will provide at least two references to CNF. Those references will be checked and evaluated.

3. Members, Committee Members and volunteers will be made aware of CNF’s Child Protection Policy at the commencement of their membership or volunteering period.

4. Individuals working with or supporting children and or young people will be required to supply details that confirm their identity and place of permanent residence in the UK.

5. A person found to have criminal record, that they have not disclosed to CNF in the Client reception Log or to a Committee member of CNF will not be allowed to work with children and or young people for or on behalf of CNF.

6. An individual suspected of offences against a person and or young person will not be allowed to work with children and or young persons on behalf of CNF until such times as the allegations have been disproved or he has shown significant tangible evidence to suggest otherwise.

What to do when a child reports abuse to you

7. The Person discovering or suspecting abuse should alert CNF National Council at once

8. The individual should prepare a report immediately writing done the concerns exactly as they were reported. The individual should note the child or young person’s demean, behaviour and any significant information that is considered relevant to their welfare.

9. The individual should keep all handwritten notes in case they are needed at a later date as evidence.

10. You must not discuss your concerns and or suspicions with the person alleged to have perpetrated the abuse.

11. You must not discuss the concerns with the nominated person within CNF, particularly if they are or suspected of being involved in the allegations and or concerns.

12. Serious physical or sexual abuse must be reported without delay to the local Police.

Children Need Families are committed to:

1. Listening to and relating effectively to children and young people, whilst ensuring their protection.

2. Encouraging Parents, Grandparents, the extended family and carers to listen to children when they raise concerns to them.

3. Ensuring that CNF officers, volunteers and members are given support and training to recognise physical, sexual and emotional abuse.