Hiya
A multi-professional approach is recognised as the best way for children to be supported where there are concerns of abuse or actual abuse. Traditionally, this has described the way adults who perform different job roles within different organisations work together regionally, adopting a joint, multi-agency approach. Early years workers, other childcarers and teachers may be involved in maximising the child's learning and experiences through the settings, while outside professionals work on providing support in other areas, such as;
social workers
police officers (with special training)
hospital protection officers
child's gp
probation officers
education welfare officer
health visitors or school nurse
teachers
early years workers
The approach draws on the professionals within the local communties, whilst accessing external expertise.
New organisations, known as 'childrens trusts' are now bringing together services for children and families:
Health services - including health visitors, speech and language therapists and educational psychologists.
Early years provision - integrated child care and early education
Social services - including social workers, family support workers and child protection teams.
The scope of the individual trusts vary, some already employ a wide range of professionals and handle all children's services. They may also incorporate local Sure Start programmes and work in partnership with independent sector organisations, incl voluntary organisations such NSPCC and a range of community sector organisations such as housing services and leisure services. Some trusts may focus on the provision of services for vunerable children such as disabled children or children who are 'looked after' by their local authority (this includes children who are living residential care homes with foster parents) and children in need of child protection services.
The professionals are there to support you. If you are feeling distressed after or during involvement in a case of suspected or actual abuse, you may want the opportunity to talk through your feelings. But because of strict confidentiality, you must not talk to anyone who does not 'need to know'. However, it is appropriate for you to talk to your supervisor, or you can ask your supervisor for the name of the outside professional that you can contact to talk things over. This is generally a social worker or a worker from the NSPCC.
Im sorry this is abit long winded, but i hope it helps!! gud luk
fluffy bunny