Page 3 - safeguarding leaflet revised May

How to deal with a disclosure

Do . . . Do not . . .

• Take the child seriously • Promise to keep it a secret
• Stop the child from speaking
• Reassure them that it is alright to • Ask leading questions
tell you • Question unnecessarily
• Make assumptions
• Take your time • Minimise

• Let them speak e.g. “That doesn’t sound serious”
• Try to deal with it on your own
• Listen carefully • Delay in passing on your concern
• Force the child to recall
• Ask open questions • Ask the child to show you any injuries

• Clarify with open questions requiring the removal of clothing
• End the conversation abruptly
• Say what you will do next e.g. report to • Criticise the alleged perpetrator
Designated Safeguarding Lead

• Record verbatim and sign and date

• Provide factual information

• Consider medical attention

• Liaise with Designated Safeguarding
Lead at the earliest opportunity, who will
refer to Children’s Services, if appropriate

Following a Disclosure

• Pass on the concern to Sam Ball, 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