Safe Employment

Working Together to Safeguard Children, DfES, 2006 outlines the responsibilities of Local Safeguarding Children Boards and states that one of the “core functions” of LSCBs is to ensure appropriate policies and procedures are in place with regard to the recruitment and supervision of people who work with children.

Safe employment is central to the safeguarding of children and young people. All organisations which employ staff or volunteers to work with children and young people have a duty to safeguard and promote their welfare. This includes ensuring that the organisation adopts safe recruitment and selection procedures which prevent unsuitable persons from gaining access to children.

The following guidance for SSCB partner agencies is based on current legislation, guidance and best practice and aims to promote consistent practice across the county. It is the responsibility of each agency or organisation, including the voluntary and community sector, to consider how these principles can be embedded in their organisation. Where appropriate, this will be in consultation with their personnel or Human Resources advisor or other advisory bodies.

For more information see section 2.1.3 of the SSCB Child Protection Procedures "Guidance for Safe Recruitment, Selection and Retention for Staff and Volunteers."