NICE consults on guideline to improve response to child abuse

A new draft guideline will help more professionals who work with children recognise and respond to any form of abuse and neglect. Professor Corinne May-Chahal, a leading researcher in child protection at Lancaster University, is chair of the committee developing the draft guideline, out for public consultation , which presents information on how professionals working with children outside health settings, such as social workers, teachers and police officers, can spot the signs of abuse or neglect. The guideline, from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), also highlights how to handle newly recognised forms of abuse such as female genital mutilation (FGM), sexual exploitation, child trafficking and forced marriage. The draft recommendations call on all professionals who work with children to: Make sure children feel like they have been listened to, with discussions recorded in a way they understand and are comfortable with; Speak to colleagues from other organisations so children, and their parents or carers, do not have to repeat their concerns; Think critically and use their professional judgement and not just rely on formal protocols; Follow up on any referrals they have made to make sure action has been taken. Professor May-Chahal said: "Our awareness of the different forms of child abuse and neglect is developing all the time but it is difficult for professionals to keep track of the best ways to assess abuse and intervene effectively. This guideline is important as it will help professionals spot the warning signs and then focus on what early help and interventions can be provided.