An exploration of social work, health, and education professionals’ perception of thresholds for neglect

Abstract

Joint working across agencies is reported as challenging in cases of neglect and the need to build on collaborative working practices across health, education, and social work (SW) professionals has been recognised (Haynes, 2015; Widmark et al., 2011). Despite this, there appears to be limited research exploring neglect in Scotland and specifically triangulating SW, education, and health professionals’ perceptions and thresholds surrounding neglect. In response to a learning review (informed by the Scottish Government, 2021b) in local authority X, the current study aimed to explore professional agencies’ perceptions and thresholds of neglect. It aimed to determine if their thresholds aligned, if there was a consistent approach across agencies, and to consider ways in which practice could be enhanced when working with potential cases of neglect. Six professionals across education (n=2), SW (n=2) and health (n=2) participated in semi-structured interviews. Data were analysed using thematic analysis (Braun & Clark, 2006) and generated three themes: ‘interpretations of neglect, ‘systems within the local authority’, and ‘sharing of information’. Findings highlighted a commitment to following process and utilising tools underpinned by the National Practice Model (Scottish Government, 2022) and Scottish child protection guidance (Scottish Government, 2021a), however some inconsistencies in practice across agencies were found. These inconsistencies reflected the unique lens and role which each professional agency provides when working with children and families where cases of neglect may be a concern. The study’s limitations, future research, and implications for EP practice are discussed.