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5.05 Criteria for Joint Investigation

5.5.1 A joint investigation between Social Care and the Police should be undertaken:

• If the allegation is of sexual abuse

• If it appears that criminal charges might result from the investigation because it involves allegations of serious physical harm or serious neglect

• If, in cases of minor physical abuse, the circumstances surrounding the incident indicate that a joint investigation may be appropriate.

5.5.2 Such factors that may assist in determining whether the threshold for a joint investigation have been met include:-

• Age, special needs, vulnerability and wishes of the child

• Any history of minor injuries to the child or family member

• The intent of the assault (e.g. attempted strangulation which may leave no marks but may be very serious) if a weapon or implement was used

• Background of parents/adults giving concern

• Other offences that involve unusual circumstances such as organised or institutionalised abuse, bizarre behaviour or Fabricated or Induced Illness.