Volunteer Handbook
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Version 1.2
Contents
WELCOME
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Welcome to Acorns
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Message from the volunteer managers
EQUALITY AND INCLUSION
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Promotion of equality and inclusion Equality Act 2010
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What do we mean by discrimination? Subtle discrimination
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What can we do?
FIRE SAFETY
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Fire safety video
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Five steps to fire safety
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Acorns' evacuation procedures
Photographed by Felix Manzano
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INFORMATION AND GOVERNANCE
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What is information governance?
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Personal data
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Information governance and confidentiality at Acorns
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Practical tips to keeping information safe
Social media and Acorns
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BACK PAIN
Proper handling and protecting our backs The spinal column
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Three golden rules
Positioning safely
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SLIPS, TRIPS AND FALLS
Causes
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Prevention
Photographed by Felix Manzano
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SAFEGUARDING CHILDREN
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What is safeguarding?
Who is responsible?
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Safeguarding and the law
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Recognising abuse
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Being told about abuse
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SAFEGUARDING ADULTS
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What is adult safeguarding?
Who is responsible?
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Spotting abuse
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Disclosure
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FOOD HYGIENE AND SAFETY AWARENESS
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Food poisoning
Bacteria
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Risky foods
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Photographed by Felix Manzano
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Using the microwave and the refrigerator
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Covering food
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Personal hygiene
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Allergies
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Infection control
LIFE SUPPORT AND RESUSCITATION
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Heart attacks and cardiac arrests
How cardiac arrest is treated
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Basic Life Support for Children
Choking
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SEPSIS SAVVY
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What is sepsis?
Sepsis in adults
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Sepsis in children
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Sepsis savvy game
Photographed by Felix Manzano
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Welcome
At Acorns, we commit to volunteering by ensuring you have the knowledge and skills to safely complete your volunteering activities and are compliant with Acorns quality standards and the expectations of the Care Quality Commission.
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Acorns commits to volunteering by ensuring you have the knowledge and skills to safely complete your volunteering activities.
Your increased knowledge will help you enjoy your time with us, understand the work we do, to be compliant with Acorns quality standards and the expectations of the Care Quality Commission.
All mandatory training topics for care volunteers are found within this electronic FlippingBook.
This guide will provide you with everything you need to know, follow and implement in order to remain safe in your hospice and volunteer in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines.
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As you read the information, you will come across a few “stop and think” moments where you are asked to pause and reflect on a particular point raised, this is not a test. It is intended to help bring your learning to life and consolidate your reading. There are a few video clips to click on and watch. At the end of each topic there is a link which should send you to a short knowledge test on WordWall. The questions are straight forward and are based on information held within the reading material.
We require you to write your name on WordWall so we can verify on the platform that you have completed the training.
If at any point you need assistance, whether it relates to the reading material, the test or technical support, do not hesitate in contacting your volunteer manager!
Toby Mobberley - Volunteer Manager for Walsall Janine Miller - Care Volunteer Manager Jacqueline Smith - Volunteers Manager
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Equality and Inclusion
At Acorns we should always aim to be inclusive and to treat people equally and with respect, no matter what our differences may be.
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It is important we promote equality and value diversity, because when we do we are more likely to:
Understand Acorns children, families, and each other Create a sense of cohesion and belonging for all
Have positive relationships with those around us
To maintain Acorns' reputation and high standards
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Under the Equality Act 2010, it is illegal to treat anyone less favourably on the basis of our differences
In law we refer to nine protected characteristics:
Age discrimination involves treating a
person less favourably because of their age.
Sex discrimination is where a person is treated unfavourably due to their gender (male or female).
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Race discrimination occurs when a person is treated differently from others either because of their race or ethnic group or because they have a relationship with someone of a particular race or ethnic group.
Disability discrimination is where a person is treated unfavourably because of a physical disability or mental illness.
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Religious discrimination is making an unjust distinction between people on the grounds of their religion (such as Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam or Judaism) or their holding of ethical or moral beliefs that are not related to religion.
Discrimination can also be unfairly shown towards someone who is in a relationship with someone else who has different religious, ethical or moral beliefs
Gender reassignment discrimination occurs where a person is discriminated against based on their pre or post gender reassignment surgery.
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Sexual orientation discrimination occurs against a person due to their sexuality or the gender they identify as.
This includes actions such as homophobic comments made to someone, even if they are not – and are not perceived to be – homosexual
Pregnancy and maternity discrimination refers to discrimination against a pregnant woman or a woman who has recently given birth.
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Marriage and civil partnership discrimination occurs against a person due to their marital status, whether via a marriage or civil partnership, and includes, same sex couples.
It's important to be aware of all these nine characteristics in order to
be sensitive to potentially discriminative behaviour
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What do we mean by discrimination?
There are four main types of discrimination:
Where a person is directly treated less favourably because they have one of the nine protected characteristics.
1 Direct
For example, a employee is refused a promotion because she is a wheelchair user. The employer is therefore in breach of the Equality Act.
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Indirect discrimination is the legal term that describes situations when policies, practices or procedures are put in place that appear to treat everyone equally but, in practice, are less fair to those with a certain protected characteristic.
2 Indirect
For example, an employer enforces a policy that states all employees must work full time. This
discriminates against workers with young
children, or who care for a disabled family member.
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This is where a person is discriminated against because they are associated with a person who has a protected characteristic, even if they do not have that characteristic themselves.
3 Associative
For example, a person with a strong Christian faith treats someone from their church differently after they say they attended a Hindu festival, even though they are not of a Hindu faith themselves but they attended with friends who are.
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This is when a person discriminates against another based on a perception rather than something that is factual and therefore perceived, without knowing that individual's origin or family background.
4 Perceptive
For example, a head teacher rules out interviewing a candidate for a school governor's position because they have an African-sounding name.
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What is subtle discrimination?
While the previous cases of discrimination are obvious, inflammatory and offensive behaviours that deserve vigorous scrutiny, we should not divert attention from its more subtle form. Subtle discrimination is, by nature, a bit harder to spot, partly because the offender might know it is wrong or inappropriate but does it anyway. These are acts that are covert or hard to identify, such as comments, jokes, or other behaviours that make people feel uncomfortable or unwanted.
Long periods of subtle discrimination or from different sources can be just as damaging as a single act of obvious or severe discrimination.
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Examples of subtle discrimination:
Continuously making a joke about a person’s name if it’s difficult to pronounce rather than asking them to help you with the pronunciation.
The male chair of a meeting regularly gives the men in the group more time to speak or accepts their ideas and opinions but often ignores or dismisses women in the group.
During fire evacuation training a person jokes with another volunteer who walks slowly with a stick, and a deaf colleague who cannot hear the fire alarm, saying “Don’t expect anyone to hang around waiting for you two.”
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A person says they phoned the bank the other day and recalls the conversation. “It was an Asian who answered, but she was alright”.
There are many reasons a victim of unfair treatment might not speak out or seek help if they are being discriminated against:
They feel they want to fit in
They are embarrassed
They fear retaliation or an escalation of the abuse or discrimination
They don't know who to talk to
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What can we do to uphold the law, the Acorns values, and to have an inclusive outlook towards our lives and those around us?
Engage with people, respect and value the contribution of all people equally no matter their differences.
Learn about other people’s cultures, beliefs, personal circumstances, and the different ways people wish to live their lives.
Be sensitive to situations, behaviours, policies, attitudes, or discussion that may treat others unfairly. Stop, think and back away.
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If you observe discrimination or any unwelcome behaviour to another person, speak to a senior member of staff.
Listen to people who express feelings of discrimination or unfair treatment.
If you would like to learn more, search the “Equality Act 2010” https://www.gov.uk/guidance/ equality-act-2010-guidance
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Equality and Inclusion Quiz
Please complete the equality and inclusion quiz that will test what you have learnt in the section.
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Everyone has a part to play in promoting equality and valuing diversity
We should always aim to be inclusive and to treat people equally
Remember...
Value the contribution of all people equally no matter their differences If you observe discrimination speak to a senior member of staff Be sensitive to situations and behaviours
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Fire safety
At Acorns we must co-operate with each other to ensure that the premises are always safe from fire and its effects, and we must not do anything that will place ourselves or others at risk.
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The aim of this fire safety training is to give you general fire safety guidance and Acorns specific information so we can work together to:
• Prevent a fire.
• Act safely and appropriately if you discover a fire.
• Safely evacuate the premises.
• Keep yourself and those around you safe.
Your training begins with the following video. This will give you information relevant to any setting whether at home, at Acorns or in another building:
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It is important that anyone working at Acorns is aware of hospice procedures.
Let’s begin with a few basic questions.
Do you know:
Where all the fire exits are?
Where the fire alarms are?
Where the extinguishers are?
Where the evacuation point is outside the building?
If you don’t know the answer to any of the above questions, please speak to a member of staff to find out as soon as you can.
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As part of our general safety measures, the hospice fire alarm system is tested regularly, usually by the maintenance person. Those present in the building will be informed just before this test. At our hospices a number of staff have undergone additional training to be fire wardens. A designated person, usually the nurse in charge, will take a lead managing any fire or evacuation situation. Acorns care staff are also trained in keeping Acorns children and families safe. Fire Safety at Acorns There are two ways we may be alerted to a fire. Either the fire detection system will set off the alarm automatically, or a person will detect signs of a fire and will activate a nearby alarm.
Occasionally the fire detection system may alarm in error. No presumptions should be made, an evacuation should still take place.
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On discovering signs of a fire you should follow these five steps:
If the alarm system has not already activated, you should raise the alarm by shouting “Fire! Fire! Fire!” then activate the nearest alarm by breaking the glass cover.
1 Alarm
Try to alert people near where the fire is so they can avoid using escape routes near the fire. You can for example shout out “Fire!, Fire! Play lounge!”
2 Alert
If you are trained to use a fire extinguisher and the fire is small enough to be tackled then try to extinguish the fire ( ensure you are competent and comfortable using the extinguisher and you know specifically which extinguisher to use).
3 Extinguish
Remember, if you are unable to put the fire out speedily then you should evacuate immediately.
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When possible close any doors that do not close automatically on your way as you evacuate. Please do not try to close any doors if it may put you or others in any danger.
4 Close doors
All people who are not taking care of a child - in other words volunteers, administration or housekeeping staff - should evacuate the building and head straight to the evacuation point (situated in the front car park). People who may be outside of the building when the alarm sounds, such as in the hospice gardens should also make their way to the main evacuation point to be accounted for.
5 Evacuate
No one should re-enter the building until the nurse in charge, fire warden or emergency services advise it is safe to do so.
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Acorn's Care Evacuation Procedures
The nurse in charge will co-ordinate the staff on duty. They will call the fire brigade and will support the care staff who are responsible for a child.
Our hospices are built using a modular system with different fire zones contained by fire doors. While everyone should evacuate the building where possible, it is also reasonable for the care staff to move children to the safest part of the building, such as the zone furthest from the fire. This will be determined by the nurse in charge or fire wardens on site. This only applies to acorns children and their immediate care worker / nurse. All other people including volunteers should evacuate.
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Fire Safety Quiz
Please complete the fire safety quiz that will test what you have learnt in the section.
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Everyone is responsible for ensuring fire safety
Everyone should be aware of Acorns' evacuation procedures
Remember...
Be alert Sound the alarm Evacuate safely
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Information Governance
At Acorns we have expectations that our personal information will be stored securely and used only for specific and appropriate reasons.
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What is information governance?
Information governance is a broad legal term that covers the legislation and good practices that should be adopted when dealing with people’s personal information. The term “our duty of confidentiality” refers to the responsibility we all have to protect any personal information about others if we have access to it.
We have a legal right that organisations or individuals do not pass our data to a third party without our consent.
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Types of information that should be protected:
1 Personal
Personal information – this includes name, address, telephone number, date of birth.
Sensitive information – this includes ethnicity, bank details, or information about a person’s physical or mental health.
2 Sensitive
Anonymous information - this refers to any information that has been provided without identifying a person’s name, such as an anonymous survey or anonymous donation.
3 Anonymous
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Records containing personal data should be: 1. Stored securely. 2. Accessed only by people who have good reason to. 3. Used only for specific and relevant reasons. 4. Updated for accuracy when there is a change. 5. Not passed on beyond the boundaries of the organisation without consent. 6. Disposed of securely when no longer required.
These rules you must follow are set out by GDPR data security standards. If you would like to learn more, search the “GDPR” or click on https://gdpr.eu/
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Information governance and confidentiality at Acorns
Whether you are a staff member or volunteer there are occasions on which you may become aware of the personal information of children and families.
Examples include:
You hear a parent discussing a child’s condition with a nurse.
If you are gardening, you may find yourself talking to a bereaved family member.
When working on reception you take a telephone message relating to a child.
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It is important we maintain our duty of confidentiality by:
Not passing on personal information outside of Acorns.
Within Acorns, passing information on to a relevant person only if it is legitimate to do so.
Making sure all private information is password- protected.
There may be times someone confides in you. They may give you information you can pass on without consent, for example if someone is in danger or at risk of harm. This is explained further in the safeguarding training modules.
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Practical tips to keep information safe
Lock your computer screen or log off when you move away from the workstation. Do not share your computer passwords, or write passwords in a place they could be found. Do not leave paper records unattended. Store them securely in locked cabinets. Do not dispose of records unless specifically instructed to. If you do, make sure it is in the confidential waste bin. If you make paper notes, make sure these are disposed of securely.
With risks ranging from phishing attacks on financial institutions to ransomware threats to cloud-based services, data protection has never been more important than it is today.
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Preventing any unintentional exposure to personal information
We can limit the amount of sensitive information we can come across by taking the following steps:
1 Give space
Space – ensure you give space to staff speaking face to face with a parent or guardian.
2 Be respectful
Be respectful – do not enter closed rooms if a staff member is on the phone or a meeting is taking place.
3 Be conscious
Be conscious - if you need to pass on a message verbally, be conscious of people around you who can hear your conversation.
Be careful - when sending emails containing personal information double check you have the correct recipient and when speaking on the phone be sure of who you are talking to.
4 Be careful
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Helping protecting information outside the hospice
Acorns appreciates staff and volunteers wish to talk to their family and friends about their time spent at acorns, the work you do and the families the charity helps. It is important to keep conversations broad, with general information rather than specific details about individuals, or you risk disclosing personal information about children and families.
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Social Media and Acorns
Acorns has an active presence on social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
These platforms are carefully managed by our marketing and communications team in a safe way.
Any children or families who are mentioned or photographed for Acorns social media are with the permission of parents or guardians. Stories are sensitively edited both to maintain confidentiality and to uphold the good reputation of the charity. Social media is also used to promote fundraising and to thank supporters.
Staff, volunteers and supporters of Acorns who have their own social media accounts are asked to be mindful of their personal link to Acorns and how their actions (such as comments and posts) can impact the charity and those who use Acorns services. Staff and volunteers are permitted to share stories from Acorns social media platforms including news and links but should refrain from writing posts or uploading photographs which may breech confidentiality or impact Acorns' reputation.
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Information and Governance Quiz
Please complete the information and governance quiz that will test what you have learnt in the section.
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Everyone is responsible for keeping information safe
Everyone should try to prevent risking disclosing personal information about children and families
Remember...
Be conscious Be careful Be respectful
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Back Care Awareness
At Acorns, we value our volunteers and do not wish you to experience any injuries or back problems whilst working with us.
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Keeping safe whilst you volunteer at Acorns children's hospice
We all have a legal responsibility to keep ourselves and others around us safe at work.
We do that by following procedures which are underpinned by legislation. We should follow any training given and assess and risks involved in the tasks we are going to perform. These principles apply to lifting, handling and moving an object that has a degree of risk, whether it’s a large heavy box on the floor or a jar of coffee from a high shelf.
Volunteers at Acorns should not lift and handle children in our care. As such, this training module you are about to complete relates to the handling of inanimate objects and not people.
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We may think our backs are fine, but sometimes damage can occur over a long period without us realising as it may not immediately cause pain. This is called a cumulative back injury. This kind of problem can be hard to treat and can have longer-term effects. Why proper handling and protecting our backs is important
Back pain is extremely common in the workplace, and certain conditions such as arthritis or osteoporosis can heighten back pain further.
Even handling light objects can cause problems if they are awkwardly shaped or large, or if you are handling them in awkward spaces or body positions.
Poor manual handling can also cause sudden injuries like muscle strain, a herniated disc or fractured vertebra.
Looking after your back
Generally, a healthy lifestyle, staying fit and flexible helps to reduce the risk of injury, but good back care and safe handling is essential to prevent injury or long-term damage. Be aware that your fitness and strength may be different on some days than others, so we should not be complacent even for a handling task we have completed before.
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Understanding our backs - the spinal column
Cervical spinal nerves (also called cervical nerves) provide functional control and sensation to different parts of the body based on the spinal level.
The thoracic spinal nerves control the rib cage, lungs, diaphragm.
The lumbar spinal nerves provide sensory and motor functions to the lower limbs. The sacral plexus is a network of nerves which provide motor control to and receive sensory information from most of the pelvis and leg.
As you can see our spine is an engineering feat, so be sure to take care of it with proper lifting techniques and back care!
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The three golden rules of moving and handling
1 Assess
Assess – Assess the risk of injury that might be involved if manual handling has to be carried out. Then consider how to minimise those risks.
Plan - Once you identify any potential risks, do what you can to minimise them, for example ask for help or use equipment.
2 Plan
Prepare - Prepare for the task, both yourself, the environment and the object you are handling
3 Prepare
It is important to always follow these rules in order to prevent injury!
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5 key areas to think about when performing a handling task
The load — what you are carrying or using How heavy is it? Is it difficult to grasp? The individual — your personal risk factors Have you had training to use the equipment you are using? Do you have health problems/ low fitness /previous injury? The task itself – does it involve any of the following risk factors: Holding a load away from your body? Excessive lifting, lowering or over a long distance? The environment — what are the risks in the space you are working in Are there space constraints? Uneven, slippery, unstable flooring? Equipment – that could help or hinder Is there any equipment you could use to reduce the risk of injury? i.e. a trolley or safety steps? Ensure your path is clear of equipment.
1 Task
2 Individual
3 Prepare
4 Environment
5 Equipment
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Positioning yourself safely to move and handle
Position yourself close to the object you are going to move. Have your feet apart creating a stable base, this reduces the risk of tipping or twisting sideways.
1 Feet
Always bend from your knees and avoid bending with straight legs as this puts the strain on your back.
2 Knees
Align your spine so that you are upright whilst maintaining your natural spinal curves.
3 Back
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Do not jerk or snatch the load as this can make it harder to keep control and increases the risk of injury.
4 Back
Keep the object you are moving close to your body with a firm grip.
5 Arms
Bring your head up so that you are looking up and forwards before you lift.
6 Head
If you feel uncomfortable or become unstable as you begin the task, stop and gently put the item back down.
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Other useful information Good back care isn’t just about safe manual handling - maintaining a good posture at all times is a good habit to get into.
Volunteering may involve sitting for long periods so choose an ergonomic adjustable office chair.
They may not always be available in certain parts of the hospice, but if you are sitting for long periods such as admin or reception work you should always use an adjustable office chair.
The volunteers manager or hospice physiotherapist can talk you through adjusting your chair to be most suitable for you.
If you feel Acorns is asking too much of you, or if you have any health concerns that can impact your physical health and safety, you should always discuss this with your volunteers manager. If you injure yourself while volunteering, you should report it to the nurse in charge or your volunteers manager. An incident form will need completing. You will need to seek medical advice from your GP.
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Back Pain Quiz
Please complete the back pain quiz that will test what you have learnt in the section.
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Good back care isn’t just about safe manual handling.
Always bend from your knees and avoid bending with straight legs as this puts the strain on your back.
Remember...
Assess Plan Prepare
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Slips, trips, and falls
At Acorns, we must understand the risk of injury from slips, trips and falls and our responsibility to implement management systems to eliminate or minimise risks from slips and trips
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What's a slip, trip and fall?
To slide accidentally causing the person to lose their balance. This is either corrected or causes the person to fall.
Slip
Trip
To stumble accidentally, often over an obstacle causing the person to lose their balance. This is either corrected or causes the person to fall.
Fall
An event which results in the person or a body part of the person coming to rest inadvertently on the ground or other surface lower than the person, whether or not an injury is sustained.
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Prevention The main causes of slips, and trips and accidents in workplace
Slippery/wet surfaces- caused by water, other fluids.
Slippery surfaces caused by dry or dusty floor contamination e.g. talcum powder.
Obstructions, both temporary and permanent. Uneven surfaces and changes of level.
Poor lighting. Human factors, such as volunteers rushing, running or carrying cumbersome items.
Wearing unsuitable footwear.
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Factors contributing to slip, trips and falls Some typical risk situations for slips, trips and falls include unsafe stairs, unsafe ladders, slippery surfaces, walkway obstructions and poor lighting levels.
You start by identifying where and when slips and trips could occur and then deciding what action to take to prevent these types of accidents.
Floors:
Is there occasional accidental spillage (e.g. from water/tea spillages)?
Are there any obstructions in the way?
Stairs:
Are handrails provided?
Are steps of equal height and depth?
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Fall prevention tips
Clean up all spills immediately.
Stay off freshly mopped floors.
Secure electrical and phone cords out of traffic areas.
Remove small throw rugs or use non- skid mats to keep them from slipping .
Keep frequently used items in easily reachable areas.
Wear shoes with good support and slip- resistant soles.
Remove debris from exterior walkways.
Never stand on a chair, table or other surface on wheels.
Remove small throw rugs or use non-skid mats to keep them from slipping.
Remove tripping hazards (paper, boxes, books, clothes, toys, shoes) from stairs and walkways.
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Slips, trips and falls quiz
Please complete the slips trips and falls quiz that will test what you have learnt in the section.
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Clean up spills immediately.
Remove tripping hazards (paper, boxes, books, clothes, toys, shoes) from stairs and walkways.
Remember...
Slips, trips and falls are usually preventable, by just ensuring that walkways and corridors are properly taken care of.
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Safeguarding Children
At Acorns, we must understand our responsibility for child protection and safeguarding and be able to recognise the signs, report and record concerns and respond appropriately to children who disclose their situation to us.
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What is Safeguarding?
The answer to this question is simple. Safeguarding is: "The action we take to promote the welfare of children and protect them from harm".
This means:
Protecting children from maltreatment. Preventing impairment of children's health or development. Ensuring that children are growing up in circumstances consistent with the provision of safe and effective care. Taking action to enable all children and young people to have the best outcomes.
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Who is responsible?
Local authorities have overarching responsibility for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and young people in their area. But everyone who comes into contact with children has a responsibility for keeping them safe.
Everyone, whatever their role, should know how to recognise issues and who to speak to if they need to report concerns.
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Safeguarding and the Law
In England the law states that people who work with children have to keep them safe. This safeguarding legislation is set out in The Children Act (1989) and (2004).
The United Nations (UN) Convention on the Rights of the Child and sets out the rights of children.
The Human Rights Act 1998 outlines the following rights of children: the right to life the right to freedom from torture or degrading treatment the right to education the right to liberty and security the right to protection from discrimination the right to a healthy life the right to remain with parents unless at risk from harm
In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, a child is anyone under the age of eighteen. In Scotland, a child is legally an adult once they have turned 16.
However, young people over the age of 16 may still need intervention and support to protect them from harm.
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Recognising abuse
Child abuse is when a child is intentionally harmed by an adult or another child – it can be over a period of time but can also be a one-off action. It can be physical, sexual or emotional and it can happen in person or online. It can also be a lack of love, care and attention. There are different types of child abuse and the signs that a child is being abused may depend on the type.
It is important that we understand the different types of abuse so we can spot the signs as quickly as possible.
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Physical abuse
Physical abuse is anything that involves deliberately, or intentionally, hurting a child which can include: hitting shaking
throwing poisoning burning or scalding drowning suffocating cutting and breaking bones.
If the explanation does not match the injury, this is a safeguarding concern.
Shaking or hitting babies can cause non-accidental head injuries (NAHI).
Sometimes parents or carers make up or cause the symptoms of illness in their child, perhaps giving them medicine they don't need and making the child unwell. This is known as fabricated or induced illness.
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Emotional abuse
Emotional abuse is the persistent emotional maltreatment that damages a child’s emotional health and development.
It is the second most common type of abuse.
Some signs of emotional abuse can include:
Telling a child that they are worthless. Deliberately silencing a child. 'Making fun' of what they say or how they communicate. Overprotection and limitation. Preventing normal social interaction. Ill treating someone else in their presence. Serious bullying (including cyber bullying). Frequently frightening a child. Exploitation or corruption of children.
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Sexual abuse
Sexual abuse is when a child is forced or enticed to take part in sexual activities.
This might include physical contact including:
Assault by penetration (for example rape or oral sex). Non-penetrative acts such as masturbation, kissing, rubbing, touching outside of clothing.
Or non-contact activities, such as:
Involving children in looking at, or in the production of sexual images and watching sexual activities. Encouraging children to behave in sexually inappropriate ways. Grooming a child in preparation for abuse (including via the Internet).
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Neglect
Neglect is the persistent failure to meet a child’s physical, and or, psychological needs.
This is the number one form of child abuse.
Neglect may occur during pregnancy as a result of maternal substance abuse.
Once a child is born, neglect may involve a parent or carer failing to:
Provide adequate food, clothing and shelter (including exclusion from home or abandonment). Protect a child from physical and emotional harm or danger. Ensure adequate supervision (including the use of inadequate care-givers). Ensure access to appropriate medical care or treatment. Ensure that child receives love, care, and attention.
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Domestic abuse
Domestic abuse is pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive or threatening behaviour.
This can encompass but is not limited to the following types of abuse:
Psychological Physical Sexual Financial Emotional
Signs a child may be experiencing Domestic Abuse
Afraid or wary of the perpetrator Children may feel angry, guilty, insecure, alone, frightened, powerless or confused They may become anxious or depressed and have low self-worth They may complain of physical symptoms such as tummy aches and may start to wet their bed They may become aggressive, internalise their distress and withdraw from other people
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What are the main signs of abuse?
Neglect
Poor muscle tone/prominent joints Poor skin: sores, rashes, flea bites Extreme weight loss or swollen tummy Poor hygiene, like being dirty or smelly Untreated health problems, such as bad teeth Delayed development Bruises or injuries
Physical
Bruising and object marks - hair brush, belt/buckle, slipper Bite marks, burns, scalds Unexplained injuries; refusal to discuss injury; story changes Attempting to hide injuries with clothing Withdrawn, flinching when approached, fear of home or particular adults Hurting or lashing out at others
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Emotional
Becoming anxious, depressed, destructive or demanding of attention or clingy Unable to trust others Withdrawn, low self-confidence Self-injury/harm, head banging, suicidal thoughts or behaviour
Aggression or bullying of others Fear of someone in particular Self-injury
Sexual
Unusual difficulty walking or sitting Pain, itching, bruises or bleeding to genital area Soreness or bleeding to mouth or anus Infections–vaginal, urinary tract or sexually Bruises or bite marks to the neck, thighs or upper arms
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Forced marriages
A forced marriage is where one or both people do not or cannot consent to the marriage, and pressure or abuse is used to force them into marriage. Forced marriage is illegal in the UK. It is a form of domestic abuse and a serious abuse of human rights. It may involve physical abuse, sexual abuse or emotional abuse. Some families force their children to marry because they: think it’s an important part of religion or culture are worried about the family’s reputation and honour (in some cultures also known as 'izzat') want all of the family’s money to stay together want to marry their children off in exchange for money don’t approve of their child being gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender don’t want their children to have relationships or sex feel pressured by the community or other family members to follow traditions
None of these reasons are ok.
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Honour-based abuse
Honour-based abuse is a crime or incident committed to protect or defend the 'honour' of a family or community. People who carry out honour-based abuse are often close family members but also extended family or community members.
There isn't one specific crime of honour-based abuse.
Female Genital Mutilation
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a form of female circumcision to remove or disfigure females to control their sexuality before they reach 8 years of age. This can be done using a knife, scissors, scalpel, or glass. Some signs may include: bleeding chronic infections sexual health problems and, a reluctance to have medical examinations.
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Other Types of Abuse
Trafficking for Sexual Exploitation
Trafficking for sexual exploitation also referred to as sex trafficking, is the illegal trafficking of humans for the purposes of sexual exploitation. It is a form of gender-based violence that disproportionately affects women.
Child Sexual Exploitation
Children & young people under the age of 18 are encouraged or forced into a sexual relationship or situation by an adult(s).
It often involves children and young people being offered something in return for performing sexual acts, for example, gifts, money, love, mobile phones, alcohol, drugs, or cigarettes.
Online abuse
Online abuse is any type of abuse that happens on the internet. It can happen across any device that's connected to the web, like computers, tablets and mobile phones. Children can be at risk of online abuse from people they know or from strangers. It might be part of other abuse which is taking place offline, like bullying or grooming.
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Grooming
What is Grooming?
Grooming takes place when someone builds an emotional connection with a child to gain their trust for the purposes of sexual abuse or exploitation. Anybody can be a groomer, no matter their age, gender or race. Grooming can take place over a short or long period of time – from weeks to years. Groomers may also build a relationship with the young person's family or friends to make them seem trustworthy or authoritative.
Where does it happen?
Children and young people can be befriended and groomed for sexual exploitation at a variety of premises and locations such as parks, shopping centres, restaurants, or takeaways.
Taxis can sometimes be used to take young people to various venues: hotels, clubs, private dwellings etc.
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Indicators That a Child or Young Person May Be at Risk
A lot of the warning signs of child sexual exploitation or trafficking can easily be mistaken or ignored for ‘normal’ teenage behaviour.
To make it more difficult to spot, children may not realise they are victims , they may not want to talk about their situation, and they may be too scared to talk about it .
Be aware of the indicators that a child or young person may be at risk of CSE or being sexually exploited:
Going missing – the most immediate indicator of vulnerability to sexual exploitation.
Disengagement from education.
Drug and/or alcohol dependency.
Associating with older men or other ‘risky’ adults.
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Physical symptoms e.g. sexually transmitted infections, miscarriage, abortion, bruising or marks indicating physical or sexual assault. Young people who have not received appropriate levels of attention from concerned adults. Accounts of social activities with no plausible explanation of the source of the money to fund these activities. New possessions , acquisition of money expensive clothes, drugs or other possessions without plausible explanation about their source.
Being alienated from family or community.
Being in care and having placement breakdown.
Gender identity confusion - young people in gender transition are more at risk of grooming and child sexual exploitation.
Known to be v ictims of exploitation.
Committing or associating with those involved with offending behaviour.
Sexually harmful behaviour.
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Prevent
What is Prevent Duty?
Prevent is about safeguarding individuals from being drawn into terrorism, ensuring those vulnerable to extremist and terrorist narratives are given appropriate advice and support at an early stage. Prevent is no different to any other form of safeguarding from harm. Even very young children may be vulnerable to radicalisation by others, whether in the family or outside, and display concerning behaviour. The Prevent duty does not require childcare providers to carry out unnecessary intrusion into family life but as with any other safeguarding risk, they must take action when they observe behaviour of concern.
How does Prevent affect you?
It is important to develop young people’s skills to be able to engage as active citizens in a democratic society, developing critical thinking skills so that they become resilient to and equipped to challenge divisive viewpoints and hate speech. You s hould have a clear understanding of how the holding of views which endorse extremism can lead to safeguarding issues for the wellbeing of the individual young person.
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HOW YOU RESPOND AND THE ACTIONS YOU TAKE ARE CRUCIAL Being Told about Abuse
Remember, use the do’s and don’ts to guide you if a child comes to confide in you:
DO
DON'T
Do listen carefully and take it seriously. Do reassure the child appropriately. Do stay calm. Do go at the child’s pace. Do explain what you will do next.
Don’t ask questions. Don’t make comments or judgements. Don’t appear shocked or angry. Don’t rush or stop the child. Don’t promise to keep it a secret. Don’t make promises you can’t keep.
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Focus on listening and reassuring rather than questioning.
Stay calm and avoid jumping to judgements or appearing shocked or angry. Go at the child’s pace . Don’t rush or stop them – they may clam up. Explain what you’re going to do next, but you must not promise to keep it a secret , or make any other promises you cannot keep.
You may be tempted to ask for more details, but that is for the professionals to do. It isn’t your job to make a diagnosis. Simply take what you have been told and report it to the proper authority.
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Encountering Abuse
You may come across abuse or exploitation quite accidentally, instead of being told about it by a victim. Abused children can be from any background whether affluent or not, male or female, academic or not, and from any culture or relgion. However you find out about it, you must act . If you become aware that an adult who is working, volunteering or caring for children may have abused a child, you must take it seriously and manage it properly. Your priority should be reporting the abuse to an appropriate authority . Involving yourself with the child or adult at this stage may make things worse.
Make a record of the abuse and immediately report it to someone responsible such as a senior manager or member of staff.
Never question the child or the alleged abuser directly - instead report to someone responsible as soon as possible.
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You must act...
If you personally become aware of or have concerns about abuse.
If you become aware that another adult may have:
behaved in a way that may have harmed a child or possibly committed a criminal offence against a child or behaved in a way that indicates that she or he is unsuitable to work with children unsuitable to work with children
Who to Report to:
If a child is in immediate danger, or you believe a crime has been committed, call the police.
Within your organisation, escalate to your nurse in charge, team leader, or manager. If you feel uncomfortable doing this, then you can raise concerns following the Whistleblowing policy and emailing a ‘freedom to speak up’ guardian at FTSUG@acorns.org.uk
If you need further support, please contact your designated Safeguarding lead.
Outside work, contact the NSPCC or your local authority.
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Advice on Recording and Reporting
Recording:
Make notes as soon as possible. Use the child’s words but be factual Indicate where you have recorded an opinion. Keep your records safe and secure. It must only be seen by relevant professionals. Note these dates and times: when the concern was raised, when you recorded the concerns and when you reported the concerns.
Reporting:
The child’s safety is your priority – don’t let your personal feelings get in the way. You don’t need evidence to report your concerns. Don’t approach the parents or carers unless specifically asked to do so by someone more senior and unless trained. Find out and keep available out of hours numbers for the people you might need to report to. Follow Acorns Safeguarding policies and procedures.
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Safeguarding Children Quiz
Please complete the safeguarding children quiz that will test what you have learnt in the section.
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Everyone is responsible for keeping children safe
Everyone should be able to recognise signs of abuse and report them appropriately
Remember...
Everyone is responsible Be aware of and alert to the signs of abuse When being told about abuse, listen carefully and take it seriously
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Safeguarding Adults
At Acorns, we believe that everyone has the right to live without abuse or neglect and be treated fairly with dignity and respect. Safeguarding adults is about preventing and responding to allegations of abuse or neglect of adults.
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Safeguarding adults means protecting a person’s right to live in safety, free from abuse and neglect. The Care Act requires that each local authority must: What is Adult Safeguarding?
Make enquiries, or ensure others do so, if it believes an adult is experiencing, or is at risk of, abuse or neglect An enquiry should establish whether any action needs to be taken to stop abuse or neglect, and if so, by whom
Arrange, where appropriate, for an independent advocate to represent and support an adult who is the subject of a safeguarding enquiry Co-operate with each of its relevant partners in order to protect adults experiencing or at risk of abuse or neglect.
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What Adult Safeguarding Involves Safeguarding isn’t just about preventing abuse, it’s also about looking after someone’s welfare. It’s about respecting that every adult is entitled to be involved in any decision that affects them. It’s about treating everyone with dignity and respect. Most importantly, it’s a way of thinking and behaving, and not just a set of policies and procedures.
This involves:
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