vulnerable children

The sexual health and wellbeing of vulnerable groups in Scotland : a scoping review of research literature

Report presenting the findings of a scoping study which reviewed completed and current research, and research gaps, relating to the sexual well-being of defined vulnerable and hard-to-reach groups in Scotland. The review was intended to facilitate the identification of priorities for future sexual health research in Scotland.

Provision of therapy for child witnesses prior to a criminal trial: practice guidance

The Crown Prosecution Service, the Department of Health and the Home Office have worked together to produce this guidance. The guidance is issued as part of the Action For Justice programme by which the Home Office is coordinating the implementation of the various measures for witnesses recommended in Speaking Up For Justice.

Framework for the assessment of children in need and their families

This report sets out a framework for the assessment of children in need and their families involving cooperation from all agencies who have a role in protecting children in society.

The government's expectations of how this framework will be used are also laid out. The guidance has been produced primarily for the use of professionals and other staff who will be involved in undertaking assessments of children in need and their families under the Children Act 1989.

Growing up in Scotland (GUS): parenting and the neighbourhood context summary report

The Growing Up in Scotland study (GUS) is an important longitudinal research project aimed at tracking the lives of a cohort of Scottish children from the early years, through childhood and beyond.

The study is funded by the Scottish Government and carried out by the Scottish Centre for Social Research (ScotCen). Its principal aim is to provide information to support policy-making, but it is also intended to be a broader resource that can be drawn on by academics, voluntary sector organisations and other interested parties.

Scotland's children: the Children (Scotland) Act 1995 regulations and guidance - Volume 1: support and protection for children and their families

This is the first of 4 volumes of comprehensive guidance on the Children (Scotland) Act 1995. The Regulations, Directions and Guidance which are included in this and other volumes are designed to provide guidance on the implementation of Parts II, III and IV of the Act.

This includes promotion of child welfare; the planning of childrens' services; provision of accommodation and day care services; children and disability; protecting children and short-term refuge for children at risk of harm.

Safe from bullying in children's homes

Bullying does not only happen in normal school hours, it can happen anywhere. Children who are badly bullied in school are more likely than others to be bullied outside of it too.

This guidance is aimed at managers, social workers and other staff in Children's Homes. It outlines the possible bullying that might occur in Children's Homes and describes steps to prevent it and respond to it effectively.

Protecting children: the next steps to securing their safety - a policy position paper on the establishment of an index of adults unsuitable to work with children

The consultation paper Protecting Children: Securing Their Safety - A Pre-legislative Consultation Paper on Establishing an Index of Adults Unsuitable to Work with Children was published in July 2000. It set out the Scottish Executive’s intention to establish an Index of persons dismissed from employment (including as unpaid volunteers) with children in circumstances leading to the conclusion that they might pose a threat to children.

Vulnerable children: young runaways and children abused through prostitution

This consultation paper outlines why the needs of young runaways and children involved in sexual exploitation through prostitution are important and looks at the preventative work which is being taken forward to address the underlying issues which may increase a child’s vulnerability.

The provision of services to support children and young people is also discussed.