Child protection legislation in the UK

Child protection legislation in the UK now provides a for foundation for a system of child protection

The initial framework was provided principally by the Children Act 1989, which sets out the powers and responsibilities of local authorities, and the means by which they can safeguard children and promote their welfare.

The Children Act 2004 places a statutory duty on key people and bodies, including health, to make arrangements to safeguard and promote the welfare of children, to carry out their functions with regard to the safety and welfare of children, and to co-operate with other agencies through local safeguarding children boards (LSCBs).

The government has issued statutory guidance under both of the above Acts. Of these, you should be aware of Working Together to Safeguard Children (2006)[www.ecm.gov.uk/safeguarding] and What to do if you're worried a child is being abused (2006)[www.ecm.gov.uk/safeguarding]. In addition, LSCBs produce procedures on child protection for their locality, which apply to staff in all agencies.

For health professionals, the UK National Service Framework for Children and Young People and Maternity Services[www.ecm.gov.uk/health] deals specifically with safeguarding and promoting children's welfare and The Child Health Promotion Programme (CHPP):Pregnancy and the first five years of life (2008)[www.dh.gov.uk/publications] builds on the children's National Service Framework regarding preventative services.