A Why language matters blog exploring how the term ‘alleged’ can be unhelpful when used in safeguarding and child protection practice.
News from NSPCC Learning
News
Podcast: Safeguarding in a multi-academy trust
Learn more about how the role of a regional DSL can enhance safeguarding practices in a multi-academy trust. You’ll hear from the NSPCC’s Karen Squillino as well as Jill Fuller and Habib Hussain from Lift Schools.
News
Mandatory reporting of child sexual abuse
What is the latest government update on a mandatory duty in England to report known or suspected child sexual abuse?
Why language matters: why the term ‘paedophile’ can be problematic and should be used with caution
This 'why language matters' blog explores the term 'paedophile' and why it should be used with caution.
Feb
23
2024
Why language matters: why we should avoid the term ‘victim’ when talking about children who have experienced abuse
The term 'victim' comes with implications and assumptions that can affect the way we perceive and safeguard children, and the way children perceive themselves.
Jan
26
2024
Why language matters: why we shouldn’t talk about the ‘risky behaviour’ of young people experiencing abuse
A professional focus on risk-taking behaviour can imply that the young person has a level of responsibility for abuse and exploitation – when in fact abuse is never a young person’s fault.
Nov
24
2023
Why language matters: why you should avoid the acronym 'LAC' when talking about children in care
Exploring the implications of using the acronym 'LAC' to refer to looked after children within the care system.
Oct
27
2023
Why language matters: using ‘non-accidental head injury’ and not ‘shaken baby syndrome’
Exploring the history, impact and implications for practice around the term ‘shaken baby syndrome’ and the alternatives professionals can use.
Sept
22
2023
Why language matters: what is meant by ‘early help’
Explores the use of the terms ‘early help’ and ‘early intervention’ in England and discusses the impact of conflating the two terms on the provision of support.
Aug
22
2023
Why language matters: talking about ‘equal protection from physical assault’ rather than calling for a ‘smacking ban’
Why talking about ‘equal protection from physical assault’ better reflects the need for a change in the law than calling for a ‘smacking ban’.
Jul
27
2023
Why language matters: how the label ‘older boyfriend’ can mask child sexual exploitation
Discusses the problems with the term ‘older boyfriend’ and prompts professionals to recognise the links to grooming and child sexual exploitation.
Jun
20
2023
Why language matters: why you should avoid labelling allegations as ‘malicious’
Blog exploring the risks around labelling an allegation as ‘malicious’ before properly assessing the situation.
May
23
2023
Why language matters: domestic abuse is broader than domestic violence
This blog looks at why using the term "domestic abuse" can help us to consider the wider experiences of children and families beyond physical violence.
May
02
2023