There are no excuses for practitioners failing to carry out their responsibilities, in terms of their duty to report a child at risk of harm. However, subjective factors can influence decision-making at this stage.
These include:
- fear of actual or perceived threats from the family and or community;
- concern that the report is a breach of trust;
- wish to retain professional autonomy and manage the situation;
- over-identification with family/carers and making excuses and/or justifying potentially abusive behaviour;
- concerns that the report will not be taken seriously;
- anxieties that the report will lead to significant upset for the family, but no meaningful help and support will be provided because of lack of resources;
- normalising a form of abuse or neglect because of the commonality of a particular situation such as neglect of physical care or inappropriate clothing for the weather in deprived communities;
- a belief that the behaviour may be acceptable in a culture or religion;
- over-optimism about a situation: seeing it as a one-off or accident;
- reluctance to accept professionals or those in higher socio-economic groups can perpetrate abuse or neglect;
- being re-assured by an abuser they have or will change and have or will engage with services and demonstrating disguised compliance.
It is essential therefore, that practitioners reflect on the way in which these subjective factors may be influencing decision-making, particularly any decisions not to report.
If in any doubt contact the Designated Safeguarding Person or your manager.
Managers and designated leads should always explore any subjective factors that may be influencing the decision-making of practitioners.
Further Information:
Walsh W and Jones L Factors that Influence Child Abuse Reporting: A Survey of Child-Serving Professionals (Accessed 19/7/2019)
You Gov Barriers to Reporting Child Abuse (Accessed 19/7/2019)