Listening to and capturing the voice of the child is essential for effective safeguarding practice. It helps professionals to understand children’s lived experiences, hear their views about their lives and circumstances, and take effective action to support or safeguard them.
However, case reviews highlight that professionals often face challenges around hearing and acting upon what children are telling them. Key issues include: children not being seen frequently enough or asked about their views and feelings, barriers to seeing children not being adequately challenged, and difficulties in correctly understanding and reflecting upon the child’s voice.
The learning from these reviews highlights that professionals should seek to hear and facilitate the voice of the child by:
Our series of thematic briefings highlight the learning from case reviews conducted when a child dies, or is seriously harmed, as a result of abuse or neglect. Each briefing focuses on a different topic or learning for specific sectors, pulling together key risk factors and practice recommendations.
References
A report exploring how children’s voices can inform decision-making about online safety.
Evidence-informed resources to help you ensure children always feel listened to - watch the animation, follow the tips and display the poster.
What to do if you have concerns that a child you know through your work or volunteering has experienced abuse and neglect.
