Evaluating Child Protection Referrals from Southern Education & Library Board Schools

Abstract

This research project set out to evaluate the experiences of staff in schools within the Southern Education & Library Board when making referrals to Social Services about child protection concerns during 1999/2000. In June 2001 data were gathered from questionnaires and interviews conducted with those who had made referrals. The pre-referral consultation process with the senior social worker was seen as a necessary and important provision in supporting staff when considering a referral. The report concluded that staff believed the process mostly protected the children and young people about whom they had concerns. However, some stated that they did not receive sufficient information and feedback from Social Services about the investigation and ongoing work, which they viewed as necessary in helping them support these young people appropriately during this traumatic and disruptive time.