Safeguarding Young People

Aims and Objectives for a Child Protection and Safeguarding Course

Here we outline the high-level Aims (the overall goals of the training) and the specific, measurable Objectives (what participants will be able to do by the end of the training).

Course Aims (Overall Goals)

The primary aims of this course are to ensure that all participants:

1. Promote a Safe Culture: Understand their role in fostering a safe, protective environment for children and young people, emphasising that safeguarding is everyone's responsibility.
2. Increase Awareness and Recognition: Raise awareness of the various forms of child abuse, neglect, and harm, enabling early identification of potential risks or indicators of concern.
3. Ensure Compliance: Confirm that participants are knowledgeable about the relevant legal framework, statutory guidance, and organisational policies related to child protection and safeguarding.
4. Develop Confidence in Response: Instil the confidence and competence to take appropriate, immediate action upon identifying a concern or receiving a disclosure, ensuring the correct reporting channels are used.

Course Objectives (Measurable Outcomes)

By the end of this training, participants will be able to:

Section 1: Foundations and Definitions

• 1.1 Define Terminology: Clearly define the difference between "Child Protection" and "Safeguarding."
• 1.2 Identify Legal Frameworks: Name the key legislation and guidance documents governing child protection in the relevant jurisdiction.

Section 2: Recognition and Identification

• 2.1 Classify Types of Abuse: Identify and provide examples of the four main categories of abuse: physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, and neglect.
• 2.2 Recognise Indicators: List at least three common behavioural and physical indicators associated with each type of abuse and neglect.
• 2.3 Understand Risk Factors: Identify external and environmental factors (e.g., parental mental health, domestic violence, poverty) that can increase a child's vulnerability.

Section 3: Reporting and Response

• 3.1 Implement Reporting Procedures: Describe the official internal reporting procedure, including the role of the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) or equivalent.
• 3.2 Handle Disclosures: Explain the "Do's and Don'ts" of responding to a child who makes a disclosure, focusing on listening, reassurance, and avoiding leading questions.
• 3.3 Maintain Records: Describe the requirements for accurate, factual, and timely record-keeping of concerns, observations, and actions taken.

Focus: Understanding and responding to risks facing children and young people (e.g., child sexual exploitation, online safety, neglect, peer-on-peer abuse).

Who It's For: Schools, nurseries, youth clubs, sports organisations, children's services, and charities working primarily with under-18s.

Key Topics: "Working Together to Safeguard Children" guidance, effective referral processes, recognising signs of harm, and the role of the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).