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Child Protection - Responsibilities All Nursery Staff are required to follow the Scottish Borders Child Protection Committee's Inter-agency child protection guidelines and procedures. A key element in the procedures is that if a staff member in a school is made aware of a concern (usually through a statement made by a child) of an issue that could have child protection implications, the member of staff has no option but to refer the child to child protection officers. The Children's (Scotland) Act 1995 states that the welfare of the child is paramount and this must always be the sole consideration for the school. In making a referral staff will not be making any judgement on the strength or truth of a child's statement but must follow procedures to support pupils and staff. An extensive training programme has been undertaken to ensure that all staff are aware of their responsibilities. The child's parent or carer will always be informed as soon as possible about such disclosures and any action resulting from this. Keeping parents informed may not always be undertaken by staff and could involve other organisations such as social work staff or the police. If the child protection issue is taken further, staff will work with families to support chidren through the process. The Child Protection Co-ordinator is Pauline MacFarlane, who can be contacted to discuss any issues that may arise. Useful websites providing information on dealing with child protection issues for children, young people and their parents and carers: www.infoscotland.com/childprotection and www.childline.org.uk The sites also provide advice on what steps you should take if you have concerns on a child protection issue. |