Under the Children First Act 2015, all organisations providing ‘relevant services’, to children and families must have a Child Safeguarding Statement in place. This is a written statement, informed by a risk assessment, that specifies the service being provided and the principles and procedures to be observed in order to ensure, as far as practicable, that a child availing of the service is safe from harm.
Therapist associates connected to SPI are is committed to ensuring the protection, welfare and development of children. You can read our statement here.
In summary:
The safety, welfare and development of children and young people are core principles in our work as therapists.
Our practices are informed by and compliant with Children First Guidance and legislation.
The safety and welfare of children is everyone’s responsibility.
Children have a right to be heard, listened to and to be taken seriously.
Taking account of their age and understanding, they should be consulted and involved in all matters and decisions that may affect their lives.
All children must be treated equally.
Child protection is a multi-agency, multidisciplinary activity. Agencies and professionals must work together in the best interests of children.
Confidentiality - Statement of Understanding/Consent
The services we provide are confidential. No information regarding your attendance, or the conversation that takes place, will be disclosed to any third party without your agreed, written consent. There are limits to this confidential protection. These are:
Where the therapist believes a client, a child, or another person is at risk.
Where a serious crime is planned or committed
Where ordered to by a Court of Law.
Where the client is under 18 years old, parents/guardians must consent to the therapeutic process. Some verbal feedback about the child or young person’s progress will be given to the parent/guardian, at agreed intervals, and in consultation with the child/young person.
You will be asked to sign a Statement of Understanding & Consent
Court Reports
Not all therapists associated with SPI carry out court report assessments. If you are seeking a court report, please enquire with individual therapists.
Keeping Notes
It is usual for therapists to maintain basic notes of the therapy process. These generally include the date of appointment, who attended and a few bullet points on the nature of the conversation.
Cancellations
Appointments will be pre-arranged. Where possible you should inform the therapist directly of a cancellation at least five working days before the scheduled appointment. A full fee may apply if an appointment is not attended and has not been cancelled.