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Framework for Standards

These standards have been developed by the Scottish Government to ensure that organisations establish effective practices in relation to child protection issues. More details on the Framework for Standards are available on the Scottish Government website:

This Framework for Standards has four main functions:

  • it makes clear what children and their families can expect from professionals and agencies responsible for the protection of children reflecting the commitments made to children in the Charter;
  • it sets out the practice required from those agencies and professionals to deliver against those commitments;
  • it provides a framework for agencies' own evaluation of their performance; and
  • it will help inform the development of multi-disciplinary inspections of child protection services.

Summary of the 8 Standards

  • Standard 1 – Children get the help they need when they  need it
  • Standard 2 – Timely and effective action is taken to protect children
  • Standard 3 – Children are listened to and respected
  • Standard 4 – Information about children is shared where this is necessary to protect them
  • Standard 5 – Agencies and professionals work together to assess needs and risks and develop effective plans
  • Standard 6 – People who work with children and families are competent and confident
  • Standard 7 – Work in partnership with members of the community to protect children
  • Standard 8 – Agencies, individually and collectively, demonstrate leadership and accountability for their work and its effectiveness

    So what does this mean for your group?

It means that you should have an approach and systems in place that:

  • Build relationships with children that listens and takes account of their views and needs
  • Have staff/volunteers/helpers who are vetted, have relevant training and who operate within a code of conduct
  • Raise awareness about and promote the safety and protection of children within your group
  • Provide information about what you will do to protect and care for children.
  • Respond quickly to any concerns raised by a child
  • Recognise and are aware of the signs that a child may need protection
  • Know the steps that should be taken when a concern is identified including the information that should be recorded and how your group links into the Shetland interagency Child Protection Procedures (PDF file/1.20MB)
  • Store information in a safe and secure location
  • Share information with statutory agencies where a child may be in need of protection
  • Work together with other professionals to assess the needs and risks to the child
  • Enable children and parents to say when they think you are getting things wrong and act on any complaints