WHAT TO DO | Hinder Not

First Aid Response to Alleged Abuse for all

If the child's clothes are evidence of the alleged abuse, leave the clothes as they are. Do not change clothes or destroy the clothes.
If the child's appearance is evidence of the alleged abuse example. wounds, blood, bodily fluids do not wash or clean the child if it does not put the child at risk. If first aid treatment is required, take pictures of the wounds and treat the child.
If the case is suspected rape or sexual abuse the child ought not urinate, wash or clean themselves in any way as it may destroy evidence.
Follow local protocol as to take the child to the police or hospital first to report, document and investigate the alleged abuse.

Re-read the safeguarding policy prior to starting an investigation.
Review the safeguarding form along with any other evidence submitted.
Interview the person who reported the concern.
Interview other key personnel (e.g. victim, victim’s parents, other witnesses, suspect etc).
Write a report of each interview (include date, time and as close to word for word as possible).
Assess the credibility of each report and the reliability of those interviewed.
Write a statement of findings.
Pass the statement along with all documents to the leadership team.
Respect the privacy of the person being investigated.

Discuss the situation/case with anyone outside of the appointed team.
Talk of the situation/case in areas where others can hear.
Make a judgment on the victim or person being investigated during the investigation.
Make decisions alone without other team members present.