SLOUGH SCOUTS

NSPCC Training Course "Keeping Children Safe"

'Keeping Children Safe' is designed for any adult in Scouting whose involvement brings them into contact with our youth membership - Leaders, Commissioners, Helpers, Skills Instructors, service crews, parent helpers, etc. This short programme works by helping individuals increase their understanding of the unique role they play in keeping children safe from harm.

The Keeping Children Safe programme uses a distance learning technique that ensures that, wherever an individual is located, everybody receives a consistent message, at a time and place that suit. The programme comprises three short modules; each with an accompanying questionnaire, in a multichoice answer format, designed to reinforce the key learning points. When all modules have been completed, participants receive feedback that enables them to check their answers and confirm their understanding of the programme. The programme material builds into a high quality reference handbook which participants retain and individuals who successfully complete the programme receive a certificate of completion from the NSPCC.

The programme is written in a clear and concise style, using everyday language and avoiding jargon. The layout is user-friendly with useful checklists - Do's and Don'ts - which help individuals build up their knowledge and skills.

The programme is not designed to train people to become child protection specialists. It provides training that complements and reinforces the Association's child protection policy. It enables individuals, both new to Scouting and with a current involvement, to understand their own responsibilities in relation to child protection and emphasises the importance of following good practice guidelines when working with children and young people.

Module One: "Understanding the basics"

Good practice framework; why people should act; definitions of harm; signs & indicators of abuse; effects of abuse; facts/myths of child abuse

Module Two: "What happens if"

Policy framework; organisation's responsibilities; handling disclosures; reporting concerns, suspicions & allegations; talking to parents; handling inappropriate behaviour from colleagues; managing your own feelings