Working with Sexually Active Young People under the Age of 18
Last updated: December 1, 2008
Table of Contents
3. Process for all children and young people under the age of 18
In working with young people, it must always be made clear to them at the earliest appropriate point, that absolute confidentiality cannot be guaranteed, and that there will be some circumstances where the needs of the young person can only be safeguarded by sharing information with others. This discussion with the young person may prove useful as a means of emphasising the gravity of some situations.
For guidance on information sharing and confidentiality, please refer to Information Sharing: Practitioners Guide (HM Government 2006), accessible at: www.everychildmatters.gov.uk and your own agency guidance.
It is important that workers are aware that young people under the age of 18 may be seeking help and advice from services where they may be subject to sexual exploitation, and /or may have been trafficked. In such cases young people are always likely to suffer significant harm and appropriate action in line with LSCB Safeguarding Procedures must be taken.
On each occasion that a young person is seen, an assessment of risk / need must be done and consideration given as to whether their circumstances have changed or further information is given which will inform the appropriate action required ? refer to section 11.
Anyone concerned about the sexual activity of a young person must discuss this concern with their line manager or nominated/designated person in their organisation with responsibility for safeguarding/child protection.
All discussions should be recorded. It is important that all decision-making is undertaken following consultation with managers and where appropriate, external agencies and never by one person alone.
Working Together to Safeguard Children.
paragraph 5.18 states:
“Whenever any agency encounters concerns about a child’s welfare which constitutes, or may constitute, a criminal offence against a child, they must always consider sharing that information with children’s social care or the police in order to protect the child or other children from the risk of significant harm. If a decision is taken not to share information, the reasons must be recorded”.
