1. Advanced - “First point of contact, first point of safety - Intervention for protection”
Duration - 3 Days (completed as 1 day per week for 3 consecutive weeks)
Course content will focus on what managers in various agencies or other work environment do together, even though their specific roles will differ. The course will provide a greater understanding of the different roles and responsibilities of professionals and agencies in the Child Protection process and how they fit together to protect children. Especially applicable to personal in key safeguarding posts such as but not exclusively Designated teacher, Dedicated Gardai personal including Family Liaison Officers, Clergy or lay personal, Child Protection Officers in Sports clubs and social organisations, and Local Authority Designated Officers. Case studies will be used to bring to life a number of multi-agencies tasks.
Content:
- Thresholds and referrals - Information sharing / Data Protection Act
- Safeguarding roles & responsibilities - Case studies including serious injury / death to a child
- Responding to child deaths - Allegations against staff
- Case Reviews - How groups think and group dynamics can influence decision making.
- Risk to Children list
2. Child Abuse Investigations
Duration – 5 Days (divided into two parts and delivered over successive weeks i.e. 3 days in week 1 and 2 day in week 2. Course must be completed as a whole.)
Course Aims:-
To introduce participants to the Joint Investigative Interview process, based on national and international policies and best practices. This course is available to members of An Garda Siochana and the statutory children & families social workers only.
Learning Outcomes:-
- Have knowledge of the context and background of joint investigative interviewing
- Be able to identify how child development, memory, trauma and abuse impact on the interview process
- Have knowledge in relation to the planning and preparation for joint investigative interviews
- Be able to follow the staged approach used for joint investigative interviews
- Have an understanding of the legal processes involved in child protection
- Be able to give evidence competently and confidently and understand the process of cross-examination
- Be able to undertake a joint investigative interview in accordance with the National Guidance
3. Multi-Agency collaboration in Child Protection
Duration - 2 Days
Course Aims:-
- To examine specific issues of child protection work
- To promote partnership, co-working and local ‘networking’
- To promote more effective case conference participation
Learning Outcomes:-
- Show a sound understanding of principles and processes for effective collaboration
- Understand the potential effects of abuse and neglect on child development
- Appreciate own role in child protection and that of other agencies
- Understand thresholds for intervention in the lives of children in need, risk factors and the need for a shared perspective
- Be familiar with local arrangements, services and sources of advice for supporting families and protecting children