Explain The Main Legislation And Guidelines Affecting The Safeguarding Of Children And Young People

A wide range of legislation, statutory guidance, policies and procedures support the safety and welfare of children and young people. This includes policies relating to the health and wellbeing, safety and security, personal care and individual rights.

These legislations were developed in response to recognition of childrenâ€TMs rights as individuals, increased focus on the need to protect vulnerable children, independent inquiries into the tragic death of children and failure of multi agency teams to work together, share information and provide support services to the children and their families.

Some of the main legislation and guidelines affecting the safeguarding of children and young people are as follows:

The UN convention on the Rights

This Act was mainly to protect the children and promote their wellbeing.

Every child matters has five bottom-line outcomes for children and young people • Be healthy • Be safe • Enjoy and achieve • Make a positive contribution • Achieve economic wellbeing

The schools are expected to aim for the five outcomes of Every Child matters plan.

The Childcare Act 2006 required local authorities to take more responsibility by

Improving the wellbeing of children and reduce inequalities.

Ensure there is adequate childcare for all parents who need to go to work.

Provide the information about childcare.

Ensure the childcare providers are properly trained

Introduction of the EYFS system for all under -5 age group.

Reform the childcare system by introducing two new Ofsted run registers of childcare providers. Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act

This Act introduced discretionary barring decisions, which prevent unsuitable individuals from working with children. Any person found guilty of working with vulnerable individuals even after being barred is imprisoned or fined or both depending on the

This has given a lot of children the opportunity to join the mainstream education and flourish with relatively fewer difficulties. It also provides guidance on policies and procedures to promote the welfare of children with SEN.

These legislations vary slightly in each of the home nations.

Safeguarding children in Scotland

The Children (Scotland) Act 1995 is similar to England and Wales in principle but they also have their own guidance in protecting children, guidance on inter-agency co-operation (Scottish Office 1998) and creation of a Childrenâ€TMs Commissioner for Scotland to safeguard and promote the rights and welfare of children.

Safeguarding children in Northern Ireland

The Children (Northern Ireland) Order 1995 has similar principles to that of England and Wales abut also has its own guidance.

Co-operating to safeguard children (DHSSPS 2003)- It promotes childrenâ€TMs wellbeing. Any form of abuse or crime committed against a child must be reported to the relevant authorities.

The Safeguarding Board (Northern Ireland) Act 2011 was passed in