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How to deal with a disclosure

Do . . . Do not . . .

• Take the child seriously • Promise to keep it a secret
• Reassure them that it is alright to • Stop the child from speaking
tell you • Ask leading questions
• Take your time • Question unnecessarily
• Let them speak • Make assumptions
• Minimise
• Listen carefully
e.g. “That doesn’t sound serious”
• Ask open questions
• Try to deal with it on your own
• Clarify with open questions • Delay in passing on your concern
• Say what you will do next e.g. report to • Force the child to recall
Designated Safeguarding Lead • Ask the child to show you any injuries
• Record verbatim and sign and date requiring the removal of clothing
• End the conversation abruptly
• Provide factual information

• Criticise the alleged perpetrator
• Consider medical attention
• View photographs or images (If these are
• Liaise with Designated Safeguarding accidentally shown to you please report
Lead at the earliest opportunity, who will asap)
refer to Children’s Services, if appropriate

Following a Disclosure
• Pass on the concern to the Designated Safeguarding Lead, as soon as possible
• Confidentiality - you should only discuss your concerns with appropriate other people; it is
not a matter for gossip
• Record-keeping is essential - accurately record what is said and done on CPOMS. Hand
written notes should be scanned onto CPOMS.