Preface and Introduction
Welcome to the electronic Procedures Manual for the Liverpool Safeguarding Children Partnership.
The electronic format has been designed to make the procedures easy to access and allows you to skip readily between linked sections via hyperlinks.
'Using this Manual' explains how the Manual has been constructed and the key features which have been included to assist you in navigating the chapters.
The Manual is permanently available via the LSCP website to facilitate ready access and permit regular updating.
Please do not make copies of the Manual or parts thereof as these are likely to become out of date.
It will be updated regularly and the amendments will be available from the website.
When amendments to procedures are made, they will be highlighted on the Contents page to draw your attention to where they are. The changes for each version will be listed at the top of the Quick Guide.
If you do come across any errors or omissions when using the Manual, or if you become aware of a necessary revision to the Manual, please contact the relevant Safeguarding Children Partnership Manager who will be collating the information for updates (see Local Contacts).
A glossary of terms which have a technical significance or for which abbreviations may be used in the text, is provided in 'Keywords' - use the button at the left hand side of each chapter to access this resource.
The development of the procedures is one of the core functions of the LSCP in its role to coordinate local work to safeguard and promote the welfare of children.
They encourage close working between agencies to facilitate early intervention in a supportive way to meet the needs of children and their families.
The procedures reflect current legislation, accepted best practice and comply with the government guidance: Working Together to Safeguard Children.
Further professional guidance is available from DfES 'What to do if you're worried that a child is being abused' revised by the DfE, What to do if you're worried a child is being abused: advice for practitioners (2015).
The Policy Framework chapters within which all procedures should be read are set out in Part 1 of the Manual. All users should be familiar with these chapters before accessing other Parts of the Manual.
If necessary, agencies may develop supplementary 'internal' policies which represent higher standards or which reflect an agency specific contribution to safeguarding children and child protection. However, if they do so, they must be consistent with those in this Manual.
Procedures indicate what must or may be done in specified circumstances and define the limits of professional discretion.
The procedures have the status of instructions to practitioners in LSCP member organisations and any inability or failure to comply with them should be accompanied by a brief explanation.
Any supplementary internal procedures developed by organisations should also refer to, and comply with these procedures.
Guidance provides contextual information or addresses the question of why specified actions may be required.
The contents of this Manual are for application by those working, whether paid or unpaid, in LSCP member agencies and in private or voluntary sector organisations with responsibilities for children living or present in the LSCP area.
Last Updated: October 25, 2023
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