Safeguarding Children

What is the core definition of 'Safeguarding' in the context of children?

• Proactively protecting children from abuse, neglect, and harm.

• Preventing impairment to their health and development.

• Ensuring children grow up in safe, effective care environments.

• Taking action to secure the best possible life outcomes.

What is the legal definition of a 'child' in the UK (England/Wales/NI)?

• A person under the age of 18.

• (Note: In Scotland, it is 16).

What is 'Parental Responsibility'?

• The legal rights, duties, and authority a parent has for a child.

• Held by the mother and father (if named on the birth certificate).

• Includes decisions on: name, religion, residence, and medical treatment (e.g., vaccinations).

What is 'Gillick Competence'?

• A legal principle that allows a child under 16 to consent to their own medical treatment if they demonstrate sufficient maturity and intelligence to fully understand the treatment's nature, consequences, and implications.

• It enables access to healthcare without parental knowledge or consent.

What is the crucial distinction between 'Gillick Competence' and a 'Mental Capacity' assessment?

• Gillick Competence is a test of a child's understanding of a specific treatment.

• A Mental Capacity assessment (per the Mental Capacity Act 2005) is for individuals aged 16 and over and relates to their ability to make a specific decision at a specific time.

What are the four main types of abuse

1. Physical

2. Emotional

3. Neglect

4. Sexual

List three potential signs of Neglect that a pharmacist might observe.

• Persistent poor hygiene or clothing.

• Untreated medical conditions or "failure to thrive".

• Frequent, unexplained absences from school.

List three potential signs of Physical Abuse that a pharmacist might observe.

• Unexplained or inconsistent injuries.

• Bruises or burns in inaccessible areas (back, thighs).

• Bite marks, fractures

What are ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences)?

• Stressful or traumatic events during childhood (e.g., abuse, domestic violence, parental substance misuse).

• They have a strong, negative correlation with long-term health, well-being, and life outcomes.

Why is the pharmacist in a unique position regarding safeguarding?

• Accessibility: They are the most accessible healthcare professional (HCP).

• Multiple Contact Points: Through services like Pharmacy First, NMS, sexual health, and walk-in consultations.

• Safe Space: Can provide a confidential, non-judgemental environment for disclosure.

What are four key responsibilities of a pharmacist in safeguarding?

1. identify and report concerns.

2. Signpost to other agencies (e.g., social services).

3. Use professional judgement to assess vulnerability.

4. Participate in multi-agency strategy meetings and plans.

Who are 'Looked After Children' (LAC)?

• Children in the care of their local authority for more than 24 hours.

• This group has increased vulnerability and is at higher risk of exploitation, mental health difficulties, and educational failure.