By understanding how to talk about sexual abuse, professionals can address concerns earlier, work effectively with children and families and bring words to the silence around child sexual abuse.
News from NSPCC Learning
News
Podcast: The work of the Child Safeguarding Practice Review Panel
Discover how learning from the work of the Panel, and the reports they publish, can lead to improvements in safeguarding practice. You'll hear two members of the Panel discuss two reports published at the end of 2024: a national review into child sexual abuse within the family environment and their annual report.
News
Mandatory reporting of child sexual abuse
What are the latest government plans for a mandatory duty in England to report known or suspected child sexual abuse?
Why language matters: why professionals need to talk about child sexual abuse
By understanding how to talk about sexual abuse, professionals can address concerns earlier, work effectively with children and families and bring words to the silence around child sexual abuse.
Apr
22
2025
Why language matters: how using the term ‘disguised compliance’ can be problematic
The phrase ‘disguised compliance’ can be misleading, unhelpful and blaming and can undermine working relationships with caregivers.
Mar
07
2025
Why language matters: putting the child first – why we say children who have disabilities rather than disabled children
Using child-first or child-led language reminds us of the importance of seeing children who have disabilities as children first, instead of focusing on their disabilities.
Nov
14
2024
Why language matters: rethinking the language of suicide
It's crucial that professionals are alert to the different ways in which children and young people might express suicidal thoughts or feelings. They can then work to engage and support children at risk.
Sept
12
2024
Why language matters: how using terms like ‘recruited’ and ‘working’ minimise children’s experiences of criminal exploitation
By using clear language when talking about child criminal exploitation, professionals working with a child can build an accurate picture of their experience and identify support that meets their needs.
Jun
24
2024
Why language matters: how referring to online ‘friends’ can mask safeguarding concerns
It’s essential for professionals to remain curious when children refer to people they meet online as their ‘friends'.
Apr
04
2024
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