WHAT: Guidelines for identifying and reporting child abuse, and improving professional practice in both statutory and voluntary agencies providing services to children and families. Outlines a set of sound principles and good practices, emphasizing inter-agency cooperation for improving the response to and prevention of child abuse.
WHO: All those involved in child protection e.g. Policy makers, social and community workers, health professionals, teachers, and caregivers.
WHERE: Global relevance. While these guidelines were created for Ireland’s national use, they are based on international standards, and can be adapted to other national contexts.
WHY: Provides a model of national guidelines for child protection. Particularly useful for improving the identification, reporting, assessment, treatment and management of child abuse. Clarifies responsibilities of professionals within various organizations, and enhances communication and coordination of information between disciplines and agencies.
N.B. It is expected that national guidelines will be complemented by local guidelines specific to regional needs.
