This guidance sets out how agencies and professionals should work together to protect children from abuse and neglect, and to safeguard and promote their welfare. It identifies the roles and tasks of different professionals and agencies involved in tackling child abuse and neglect, and it outlines the role of local Child Protection Committees.
Developing policy and promoting good practice in child protection must be based on effective collaboration between all agencies who work with children. The creation of unitary local authorities, the implementation of the Children (Scotland) Act 1995 and the introduction of children’s services plans provide opportunities to build upon robust working relationships and good cooperation amongst agencies.
This guidance should help professionals to become more effective in combating child abuse while at the same time being sensitive to the needs of children and their families.