2.06 Communication and Explanation
2.6.1 Good communication both between professionals and with the family is an essential part of child protection. Problems, and tragedies, have too often stemmed from the failure to share information or give clear explanations to ensure that key people are aware of the concerns.
2.6.2 Good communication with the family is equally important. Parents and children/young people are entitled to explanations about:
• What is happening and why
• What is planned or likely to happen; and
• Who the person talking to them is, and what their role is.
2.6.3 They are also entitled to be listened to and to ask questions. Giving explanations is not always easy, emotions may be running high or the situation itself may be far from clear. Professionals should try to answer all questions honestly and openly acknowledging that they may not have all the information at that point in time.
2.6.4 Additionally, a parent may be suspected of causing the alleged abuse. If the police are likely to question someone, care will need to be taken not to pre-empt their interview or cause a situation where a child or young person is put under pressure to retract an allegation. If it becomes clear that the police will be involved, this should be openly acknowledged.
2.6.5 Professionals should bear in mind that they are likely to be more familiar with the system than the family, that explanations are likely to take time and may need to be repeated. It may be helpful to offer to put explanations in writing. Silence should never be construed as understanding and professionals need to be alert to the possibility of misconceptions, arising either from ignorance or from media reports.
2.6.6 Scrupulous care must be taken to ensure that parents and child/young people are informed of their legal rights.
