d/Deaf and disabled children: learning from case reviews

Summary of risk factors and learning for improved practice when working with deaf and disabled children

Research shows that disabled children are at an increased risk of being abused compared with their non-disabled peers (Jones et al. 2012). They are also less likely to receive the protection and support they need when they have been abused (Taylor et al. 2014).

Published case reviews highlight that professionals often struggle to identify safeguarding concerns when working with d/Deaf and disabled children.

The learning from case reviews emphasises the importance of child focused practice. It highlights the need for a holistic approach to supporting disabled children and their families. It stresses the importance of considering all a child's support needs, rather than just those related to their disability.

Published: January 2016

Jones, L. et al (2012) Prevalence and risk of violence against children with disabilities: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies. The Lancet, 380(9845):899-907.

Taylor, J. et al (2014) An investigation into the relationship between professional practice, child protection and disability (PDF) Edinburgh: The Scottish Government.